Exploring the possibility of detecting dark energy in a terrestrial experiment using atom interferometry

Abstract

The majority of astronomers and physicists accept the reality of dark energy but also believe it can only be studied indirectly through observation of the motions of galaxies. This paper opens the experimental question of whether it is possible to directly detect dark energy on earth using atom interferometry through a force hypothetically caused by a gradient in the dark energy density. Our proposed experimental design is outlined. The possibility of detecting other weak fields is briefly discussed.

Revised version of a paper presented by MLP at the Windows on the Universe, XXI Rencontres de Blois, 21-26 June, 2009