Quantum Physics Exploring Gravity in the Outer Solar System: The Sagas Project

TL;DR

The SAGAS project proposes deploying advanced atomic sensors on a spacecraft to test fundamental physics and explore the outer Solar System with unprecedented precision between 2020 and 2030.

Contribution

It introduces a novel mission concept combining atomic sensors and laser links for high-precision measurements in deep space.

Findings

Potential to test general relativity with high accuracy

Ability to explore the Kuiper belt in detail

Advancement in space-based atomic sensor technology

Abstract

We summarise the scientific and technological aspects of the SAGAS (Search for Anomalous Gravitation using Atomic Sensors) project, submitted to ESA in June 2007 in response to the Cosmic Vision 2015-2025 call for proposals. The proposed mission aims at flying highly sensitive atomic sensors (optical clock, cold atom accelerometer, optical link) on a Solar System escape trajectory in the 2020 to 2030 time-frame. SAGAS has numerous science objectives in fundamental physics and Solar System science, for example numerous tests of general relativity and the exploration of the Kuiper belt. The combination of highly sensitive atomic sensors and of the laser link well adapted for large distances will allow measurements with unprecedented accuracy and on scales never reached before. We present the proposed mission in some detail, with particular emphasis on the science goals and associated measurements.