Laser driven production of antimatter molecules

ORAL

Abstract

Recent years have seen marked progress in the production of, and experimentation with, atomic antimatter in the form of antihydrogen, $\overline{\rm H}$. Now we investigate the feasibility of producing the anti-molecular hydrogen anion, $\overline{{\rm H}}_2^-$ (consisting of two anti-protons and and a positron), in the laboratory. Utilizing reaction rates calculated here involving the interaction of antiprotons trapped with antihydrogen atoms, key processes are identified that could lead to anion production. These reactions are discussed in the context of present day and near future experimental capabilities.

Authors

  • Mark Zammit

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory
  • Michael Charlton

    • Swansea University
  • James Colgan

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory
  • Svante Jonsell

    • Stockholm University
  • Jeremy Savage

    • Curtin University
  • Dmitry Fursa

    • Curtin University
  • Igor Bray

    • Curtin University
  • Christopher Fontes

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory
  • David Kilcrease

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory
  • Peter Hakel

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory
  • Jeffery Leiding

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory
  • Eddy Timmermans

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory