Quantum Tests of the Einstein Equivalence Principle with the STE-QUEST Space Mission

Abstract

We present in detail the scientific objectives in fundamental physics of the Space-Time Explorer and QUantum Equivalence Space Test (STE-QUEST) space mission. STE-QUEST was pre-selected by the European Space Agency together with four other missions for the cosmic vision M3 launch opportunity planned around 2024. It carries out tests of different aspects of the Einstein Equivalence Principle using atomic clocks, matter wave interferometry and long distance time/frequency links, providing fascinating science at the interface between quantum mechanics and gravitation that cannot be achieved, at that level of precision, in ground experiments. We especially emphasize the specific strong interest of performing equivalence principle tests in the quantum regime, i.e. using quantum atomic wave interferometry. Although STE-QUEST was finally not selected in early 2014 because of budgetary and technological reasons, its science case was very highly rated. Our aim is to expose that science to a large audience in order to allow future projects and proposals to take advantage of the STE-QUEST experience.

27 pages, 6 figures, to appear in Advances in Space Research

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• Physical quantities and spatial parameters in the complex octonion curved space
• The Equivalence Principle as a Noether Symmetry
• Aberrations in (3+1)D Bragg diffraction using pulsed Gaussian laser beams
• Open problems in gravitational physics
• Weak equivalence principle and nonrelativistic limit of general dispersion relations
• Quantum arrival times in free fall
• Context-Dependent Time-Energy Uncertainty Relations from Projective Quantum Measurements
• Equivalent Gravities and Equivalence Principle: Foundations and experimental implications
• Adherence and violation of the equivalence principle from classical to quantum mechanics
• A plug-and-play solution for characterizing two-way optical frequency transfer over free-space
• Bose-Einstein condensates in microgravity and fundamental tests of gravity
• Gravity field modeling using space frequency signal transfer technique between satellites
• Probing the Quantum Nature of Gravity in the Microgravity of Space
• The antenna phase center motion effect in space-based experiments for fundamental physics and astronomy