Force and acceleration sensing with optically levitated microparticles

Optomechanical sensors have transformed our ability to measure weak forces and accelerations. Among them, optically levitated particles are compelling because they are largely decoupled from their environment, enabling high sensitivity in high vacuum. We demonstrate impulse and acceleration sensing with optically levitated nanogram masses using silica microspheres and noble‑gas solid particles. I describe our experimental platforms, measurement protocols, and calibration strategies, and I compare sensing performance across materials and operating conditions.