Quantum estimation of the Schwarzschild space-time parameters of the Earth

TL;DR

This paper proposes a quantum measurement scheme using entangled light to precisely estimate Earth's Schwarzschild space-time parameters, potentially surpassing classical methods in accuracy.

Contribution

It introduces a novel quantum experiment framework for high-precision space-time parameter estimation considering Earth's curvature effects.

Findings

Quantum scheme can improve measurement precision over classical methods

Entangled light enhances sensitivity to space-time curvature

Discussion of technological developments needed for implementation

Abstract

We propose a quantum experiment to measure with high precision the Schwarzschild space-time parameters of the Earth. The scheme can also be applied to measure distances by taking into account the curvature of the Earth's space-time. As a wave-packet of (entangled) light is sent from the Earth to a satellite it is red-shifted and deformed due to the curvature of space-time. Measurements after the propagation enable the estimation of the space-time parameters. We compare our results with the state of the art, which involves classical measurement methods, and discuss what developments are required in space-based quantum experiments to improve on the current measurement of the Schwarzschild radius of the Earth.