Measuring gravitational behavior at short distances in space: A local test for MOND/MOG

TL;DR

This paper investigates the AQUAL modified gravity theory's predictions for microgravity tests at Solar system saddle points, revealing an unnoticed gravity enhancement at sub-micrometer scales that can be experimentally measured.

Contribution

It demonstrates that AQUAL theory predicts measurable gravity enhancements at micro scales near Solar system saddle points, suggesting new experimental tests for modified gravity.

Findings

AQUAL predicts gravity enhancement at sub-micrometer scales.

Gravity enhancement occurs near Solar system saddle points.

Proposes micrometer-scale gravity tests in space.

Abstract

We consider the AQUAL theory - a theory of modified gravity capable of resolving the missing mass problem - and study its predictions for micro gravity tests at the gravitational saddle points of the Solar system. We report that the AQUAL model enhances the gravity at the sub-micrometer ranges around the gravitational saddle points in a way that so far has been unnoticed. This enhancement can be measured. We, therefore, call for moving toward implementing micrometer gravity tests within the Solar gravitational saddle points.