Ab initio quantum scattering calculations for the CO-O system and a new CO-O potential energy surface: O and air broadening of the R(0) line in CO.

We present ab initio calculations of the collisional broadening of the R(0) pure rotational line in CO (at 115 GHz) perturbed by O. Our calculations are done in a fully quantum way by solving close-coupling quantum-scattering equations without any approximations. We also report a new, highly accurate CO-O potential energy surface on which we did the quantum-scattering calculations.

Limits on the Flux of Nuclearites and Other Heavy Compact Objects from the Pi of the Sky Project.

Many theories predict the existence of very heavy compact objects, that in terms of sizes would belong to the realms of nuclear or atomic physics, but in terms of masses could extend to the macroscopic world, reaching kilograms, tonnes, or more. If they exist, it is likely that they reach our planet with high speeds and cross the atmosphere. Because of their high mass-to-size ratio and huge energy, in many cases, they would leave behind a trail in the form of sound and seismic waves, etches, or light in transparent media.