Derevianko, A.
, Gibble, K.
, Hollberg, L.
, Newbury, N.
, Oates, C.
, Safranova, M.
and Sinclair, L.
(2022),
Fundamental Physics with a State-of-the-Art Optical Clock in Space, Quantum Science and Technology, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=933957
(Accessed April 19, 2024)
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Fundamental Physics with a State-of-the-Art Optical Clock in Space
Published
Author(s)
Andrei Derevianko, Kurt Gibble, Leo Hollberg, , , Marianna Safranova,
Abstract
Recent advances in optical atomic clocks and optical time transfer have enabled new possibilities in precision metrology for both tests of fundamental physics and timing applications. Here we describe a space mission concept that would place a state-of-the-art optical atomic clock in an eccentric orbit around Earth. A high stability laser link would connect the relative time, range, and velocity of the orbiting spacecraft to earthbound stations. The primary goal for this mission would be to test the gravitational redshift, a classical test of general relativity, with a sensitivity 30,000 times beyond current limits. Additional science objectives include other tests of relativity, enhanced searches for dark matter and drifts in fundamental constants, and establishing a high accuracy international time/geodesic reference.Citation
Quantum Science and Technology
Pub Type
Journals
Download Paper
Keywords
optical clock, relativity, time tranfser
Citation
Created July 21, 2022, Updated March 17, 2023