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Catastrophic astrophysical events such as black hole mergers could release energy in unexpected forms. Exotic low-mass fields (ELFs), for example, could propagate through space and cause weak signals detectable with quantum sensor networks such as the atomic clocks of the GPS network or magnetometers of the GNOME network. These are the results of theoretical calculations undertaken by a research group that includes Dr. Arne Wickenbrock of the PRISMA + Cluster of Excellence at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) and the Helmholtz Institute Mainz (HIM). They are particularly interesting in the context of dark matter research, as low-mass fields are seen as promising candidates for this exotic form of matter.
From multi-messenger astronomy to the search for dark matter
Multi-messenger astronomy involves the coordinated observation of disparate signals resulting from the same astrophysical event. Since the first detection of gravitational waves with the LIGO interferometer several years ago, interest in this field has expanded enormously and has produced an enormous amount of new information coming from the depths of the universe. “When gravitational waves are generated somewhere in space and detected on Earth, numerous telescopes now focus on the event to record various signals, such as those in the form of electromagnetic radiation, for example,” explains Arne Wickenbrock. “We wondered what would happen if some of the observed energy released by such events were also radiated in the form of exotic low-mass fields or ELFs. Would we be able to detect them with our existing quantum sensor networks?”
The scientists’ calculations confirmed that this may be the case with some parameters. “We also found that these fields, when irradiated, caused a characteristic frequency signature in the networks,” adds Arne Wickenbrock. “The signal would be similar to the sound of a siren passing by, sweeping from high to low frequencies.” The researchers have two particular networks in mind: the worldwide GPS network of atomic clocks and the GNOME network, which includes a multitude of magnetometers distributed around the world. Based on the expected signal strength, the GPS system should currently be sensitive enough to detect ELFs. JGU Professor Dmitry Budker’s working group at HIM, along with other teams, are currently updating the GNOME network and should be sensitive enough to observe such events upon completion.
ELF potentials are of particular importance in the search for dark matter. Although we know this strange form of matter must exist, no one yet knows what it is made of. Specialists are considering and researching a whole range of possible particles that could theoretically qualify as candidates. Among the current most promising candidates are extremely light bosonic particles, which can also be seen in terms of a classical field oscillating at a particular frequency. “Thus, in the depths of the universe, dark matter in the form of ELF can be created during the merger of two black holes,” concludes Arne Wickenbrock. “Precision quantum sensor networks, in turn, could function as ELF telescopes, adding another important element to the multi-messenger astronomy toolbox.”
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