Scientists Uncover Secrets of the Cosmic Void: Measuring the Unmeasurable

The Void Within: How Scientists Are Measuring the Unmeasurable Imagine a space so empty, so devoid of matter and energy, that it's almost impossible to comprehend. This is the cosmic void between galaxies, where the density of particles is estimated to be just one hydrogen or helium atom per cubic meter. But what if I told you that even this vast expanse isn't completely vacuum-like? That there are still tiny particles lurking in the shadows, waiting to be detected? For scientists like Stephen Eckel and his team at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), measuring these infinitesimal densities is a holy grail. They've been working on a revolutionary new tool that uses individual atoms as targets for stray particles to hit. This quantum sensor can detect lower atomic concentrations than ever before, making it a game-changer for fields like big science, semiconductors, and more. Eckel's team has built a portable vacuum gauge that measures pressures by detecting how long cold atoms stay cold in their magneto-optical trap. It's a clever setup, but what makes it truly remarkable is its ability to detect the presence of particles without calibration. This means that scientists can rely on the sensor as a standard, eliminating the need for tedious and time-consuming calibration procedures. But why does measuring nothing matter? The answer lies in the world of big science, where researchers are pushing the boundaries of what's possible. "The atom was already our standard for time and frequency," says Kirk Madison, professor of physics at the University of British Columbia (UBC). "Now we're trying to use it as a standard for vacuum measurement." This is no small feat, considering that even in the most extreme conditions, there are still particles present. Madison's team has been working on developing this new technology, and their results are promising. By using individual atoms as targets, they've been able to detect lower atomic concentrations than ever before. But what does this mean for the real world? For one, it could revolutionize the field of semiconductors. "Semiconductor manufacturers need precise control over vacuum conditions," says Madison. "This new technology could give them that." But the implications go far beyond the lab. Imagine a future where scientists can measure the cosmic void itself, detecting the presence of particles in the vast expanse between galaxies. It's a prospect that's both thrilling and humbling. As Eckel's team continues to refine their sensor, they're pushing the boundaries of what's possible. They're not just measuring nothing; they're exploring the very fabric of our universe. And with each new discovery, we're one step closer to understanding the mysteries of the void within. The Scale Issue: A Special Report This article is part of our special report on The Scale Issue, where we explore the latest developments in measurement and detection technology. From atomic sensors to quantum computing, we'll take you on a journey through the cutting-edge innovations that are changing the way we understand the world around us. About the Author Dina Genkina is a science journalist with a passion for exploring the intersection of technology and society. She has written extensively on topics ranging from artificial intelligence to biotechnology, and is currently working on a book about the future of measurement and detection. *Based on reporting by Spectrum.*