We discuss novel quantum and classical phases that can be realized with groundstate alkali atoms weakly dressed by highly-excited Rydberg states. Using exact numerical techniques, for atoms in the Rydberg-blockade regime we find a novel phase consisting of a crystal of mesoscopic superfluid droplets. At low temperature, phase coherence throughout the whole system, and the ensuing bulk superfluidity, are established through tunneling of identical particles between neighboring droplets, realizing a supersolid in free space. |
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