The main objective of QuCoM is to demonstrate the proof of concept (TRL 1) of a levitated acceleration sensor and its ability detecting gravity of small masses and in the quantum controlled regime. Toward this objective we will explore the interplay between quantum mechanics and gravity in a parameter range accessible for cost-effective table-top experiments. We will suspend sub millimetre particles in optical and magnetic traps and use those to detect gravitational forces in an unprecedented mass regime. Also, we will investigate quantum superpositions in which these masses are delocalized. We will address some of the most popular theoretical proposals combining quantum physics and gravity in a nonstandard fashion. The proposed experiments will assess their limits of validity and/or further constrain the values of their parameters. The consortium consists of two experimentalists, two theorists, and two SMEs to address the objective. The experiments in question will be performed with optically and magnetically trapped micro/nano-particles based on the experimental expertise of partners in the consortium. Levitated mechanics experiments at Southampton have been already picked up by the EU Innovation radar. In QuCoM we will, go beyond and demonstrate the two-mass gravity sensing as well as the operation of our sensors in the quantum domain. The state preparation, control and analysis schemes are based on the expertise of the theory partners. QuCoM partner high-tech SMEs will help to optimize the experimental apparatus for fulfilment of the targeted objectives, which will in turn put them in a position to offer their improved products in sub mK, low vibration cryogenic equipment to market. The SME LSI will explore, together with University of Leiden, the feasibility of implementing our technology into a micro-satellite platform for space-based metrology and Earth Exploration utilizing gravitational detection. This is our direct technology impact and innovation case.

The European Microkelvin Platform (EMP) provides access to the ultralow temperature frontier approaching absolute zero. The Platform is continuously evolving by extending its reach, building on the integration achieved through previous infrastructure calls. Europe already has a significant research lead in the microkelvin regime and we will reinforce this by encouraging the further exploitation, in both the shorter and longer term, of ultralow temperatures for the development of new concepts, new applications and new devices, especially in the fields of nanoscience, materials research and quantum technology in all its forms. The EMP is a consortium of 17 partners which provide an extensive portfolio of capacities and expertise in ultralow temperature physics. Since this is a fast evolving and expanding frontier field, we also lay considerable weight on improving and upgrading our infrastructure, since the lowest accessible temperatures are continuously falling. These advances allow us, and our users from across Europe, to study new phenomena, thereby generating new knowledge, applications and commercial opportunities. We have a particular interest in the benefits of ultralow temperature physics for driving forward the inter-related areas of quantum materials, nanoscience, and quantum technology. The activities of the EMP hold enormous potential for innovation. A more extensive description of the Platform and its philosophy can be found in Nature Reviews Materials, The European Microkelvin Platform, Nat. Rev. Mater. 3, 18012 (2018).