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Gravitational wave detectors based on matter wave interferometers (MIGO) are no better than laser interferometers (LIGO)

Albert Roura·Dieter R. Brill·B. L. Hu·Charles W. Misner·William D. Phillips
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Abstract

We show that a recent claim that matter wave interferometers have a much higher sensitivity than laser interferometers for a comparable physical setup is unfounded. We point out where the mistake in the earlier analysis is made. We also disprove the claim that only a description based on the geodesic deviation equation can produce the correct physical result. The equations for the quantum dynamics of non-relativistic massive particles in a linearly perturbed spacetime derived here are useful for treating a wider class of related physical problems. A general discussion on the use of atom interferometers for the detection of gravitational waves is also provided.

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Albert Roura, Dieter R. Brill, B. L. Hu, Charles W. Misner, William D. Phillips. 2004-12-17. Gravitational wave detectors based on matter wave interferometers (MIGO) are no better than laser interferometers (LIGO). https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevd.73.084018

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