ABSTRACT: I briefly review the quantum measurement problem, and stochastic modifications to the Schrodinger equation that have been suggested as a phenomenology for state vector reduction. I then discuss recent work,using exact solutions to the decoherent, non-dissipative forced harmonic oscillator, to set bounds on the parameters entering into stochastic localization models. Current and planned nanomechanical resonator and gravitational wave detector experiments can give improved bounds on these parameters, but are still 3 to 8 orders of magnitude away from the capability of seeing an effect at the level of the preferred CSL model parameters. I also briefly discuss decoherence backgrounds arising from the cosmic microwave background, and from molecular collisions; the latter impose stringent vacuum requirements.

Contact: Bei-Lok Hu