arXiv subjects

Gina Kleinsteinberg

Publications and source records attributed to Gina Kleinsteinberg.

2 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2025

STE-QUEST -- Space Time Explorer and QUantum Equivalence principle Space Test: The 2022 medium-class mission concept

Space-borne quantum technologies, particularly those based on atom interferometry, are heralding a new era of strategic and robust space exploration. The unique conditions of space, characterized by low noise and low gravity environments, open up diverse possibilities for applications ranging from precise time and frequency transfer to Earth Observation and the search of new Physics. In this paper, we summarise the M-class mission proposal in response to the 2022 call in ESA's science program: Space-Time Explorer and Quantum Equivalence Principle Space Test (STE-QUEST). It consists in a satellite mission featuring a dual-species atom interferometer operating over extended durations. This mission aims to tackle three of the most fundamental questions in Physics: (i) testing the universality of free fall with an accuracy better than one part in $10^{-17}$, (ii) exploring various forms of Ultra-Light Dark Matter, and (iii) scrutinizing the foundations of Quantum Mechanics.

physics.space-ph↗

arXiv2023

Platform and environment requirements of a satellite quantum test of the Weak Equivalence Principle at the $10^{-17}$ level

The Space Time Explorer and QUantum Equivalence principle Space Test (STE-QUEST) recently proposed, aims at performing a precision test of the weak equivalence principle (WEP), a fundamental cornerstone of General Relativity. Taking advantage of the ideal operation conditions for high-precision quantum sensing on board of a satellite, it aims to detect possible violations of WEP down to the $10^{-17}$ level. This level of performance leads to stringent environmental requirements on the control of the spacecraft. We assume an operation of a dual-species atom interferometer of rubidium and potassium isotopes in a double-diffraction configuration and derive the constraints to achieve an Eötvös parameter $η=10^{-17}$ in statistical and systematic uncertainties. We show that technical heritage of previous satellite missions, such as MICROSCOPE, satisfies the platform requirements to achieve the proposed objectives underlying the technical readiness of the STE-QUEST mission proposal.

physics.space-ph↗