The ThF+ eEDM experiment: concept, design, and characterization

The Standard Model of particle physics is one of the most successful models that we have to describe the universe at a fundamental level. However, the Standard Model is known to be incomplete. For instance, the Standard Model does not explain the degree of abundance of matter over anti-matter. When theorists make extensions to the Standard Model through new physics models, their models usually make predictions on the value of the electric dipole moment of the electron (eEDM). By measuring (or placing improved limits on) the eEDM, we can place constraints on these new theories. The eEDM experiments at JILA use molecular ions to measure the eEDM. Molecular ions are good for two main reasons: (i) our molecules give us enhanced sensitivity to the eEDM, and (ii) trapped ions allow us to take advantage of the long coherence times of the eEDM-sensitive states. The Generation II JILA eEDM experiment using HfF+ concluded in November 2022 by setting the world’s best limit. In our Generation III project, we seek to further improve upon our limit by switching over to ThF+, which promises enhanced sensitivity to the eEDM. Herein, I present (i) spectroscopy work performed on ThF+ to allow us to control the molecule in both the external and internal degrees of freedom, (ii) design and characterization of a prototype of a multiplexed ion trap.