Developing and exploiting a beam of exotic neutron halo nuclei: probing quantum coherence and decoherence at the femtoscale

Rapid development of the first accelerated radioactive isotope capability in Australia is proposed, combining our world-class accelerator facility, a recently completed superconducting separator, and novel beam particle tracking and identification. One of the most intense beams will be 6He, amongst the most exotic nuclei in nature, with an extended neutron halo. Its interactions will be probed by experiments using new concepts and efficient instrumentation resolving current controversies, highlighting the interplay between quantum coherence and decoherence, and advancing models for optimal applications of exotic nuclei. Synergies with fundamental quantum information and computing research into decoherence and measurement will be pursued.