Short-range force sensing with an optically levitated nanosphere

Optically levitating dielectric particles are a promising tool for precision measurement experiments. Our system consists of a 300 nm silica nanosphere that is capable of measuring Zeptonewtonian (10^-21 N) force sensitivities. We plan to use this nanosphere to advance the search for short distance gravitational forces that go beyond our fundamental understanding of Newtonian gravity and the standard model. To probe such new exotic forces, we can position the levitating nanosphere at micron length scales away from a surface. In this poster presentation, I will explain the importance of refining our techniques of capturing, cooling, and precisely controlling the position of the nanosphere in order to tighten the bounds on short distance gravity. I will also describe various measurements that we plan to do in the future.