The Life and Fate of Ultra-Long-Range Rydberg Molecules

Ultralong-range Rydberg molecules are distinguished by their extraordinary spatial extent, exaggerated properties, and unconventional binding mechanisms, placing them beyond the realm of traditional molecular physics. At the same time, they provide a unique platform for exploring quantum phenomena, many-body interactions, and novel forms of controlled molecular dynamics with exceptional precision.

By combining ultracold quantum gas technology with a reaction microscope, we photoassociate a diverse class of ultralong-range Rydberg molecules. We investigate their molecular properties, interactions with surrounding ground-state atoms, responses to external electric fields, and decay dynamics. High-resolution frequency spectra exhibit excellent agreement with advanced theoretical models, while momentum-resolved imaging reveals their alignment and orientation in external fields.

Most notably, recent results open promising avenues for future research, including heavy Rydberg systems, ultracold negative ions, and strongly correlated pair plasmas.