Probing many-body dynamics on a large-scale quantum simulator

We demonstrate a method for the creation of controlled many-body quantum matter that combines deterministically prepared, reconfigurable arrays of individually trapped cold atoms with strong, coherent interactions enabled by excitation to Rydberg states. We realize a programmable Ising-type quantum spin model with tunable interactions and system sizes up to 51 qubits. Using this approach, we observe transitions into ordered states that break various discrete symmetries, verify their high-fidelity preparation, and investigate dynamics across the phase transition . In particular, we observe novel, robust many-body dynamics corresponding to persistent oscillations of the order after a sudden quantum quench, investigate quantum critical regimes with different universality classes and probe entanglement dynamics within this system. Finally, prospects for realization and testing of quantum optimization algorithms will be discussed.