Scientists from the National Laboratory of Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics (KL FAMO), a research centre at the Institute of Physics of the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Poland, carry out world class experimental research in the areas of atomic, molecular, and optical physics.

THE RESEARCH results in the creation of precise measuring instruments – optical clocks – and enables secure communication with satellites and detection of explosive hazardous substances. KL FAMO was established in 2002 in order to facilitate international cooperation of physicists. Currently, the lab runs joint research with more than twenty centres located on almost all continents, including Northern America, Europe, Asia and Australia.

 ‘According to our regulations, we provide access to our infrastructure to research teams in Poland and abroad,’ declares the director of KL FAMO, Prof. Michał Zawada.

One of the major projects carried out by the laboratory involves developing optical atomic clocks, currently the most precise measuring instruments and frequency standards. Only a few facilities in the world have similar clocks, and the precise time measurements play a vital role in numerous areas of science and technology. Thanks to the devices built in Poland, the laboratory cooperates among others with the European Association of National Metrology Institutes (EURAMET).

Other Domains of Research

Another domain where international cooperation matters a great deal is research on individual photons and quantum information. The FAMO physicists are working on a secure transfer and processing of quantum information. It plays a role e.g. in secure communication with satellites with the use of quantum channels.

Furthermore, the laboratory team is working on a project involving ultraprecise spectroscopy. It is particularly useful in atmospheric research of exoplanets, detection of explosive substances and greenhouse gas monitoring.

Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń

National Laboratory of Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics (KL FAMO)

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