Chameleon gravity and satellite geodesy

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential for detecting chameleon gravity effects using satellite geodesy, proposing methods to constrain chameleon model parameters through satellite and ground measurements.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach to constrain chameleon gravity models via satellite geodesy and suggests comparing ground and space multipole moments for detection.

Findings

Constraints on chameleon parameters from satellite data

Potential detection methods via multipole moment comparison

Implications for modified gravity theories

Abstract

We consider the possibility of the detection of a chameleon effect by an earth orbiting satellite such as LAGEOS, and possible constraints that might be placed on chameleon model parameters. Approximate constraints presented here result from using a simple monopole approximation for the gravitational field of the earth, along with results from the Khoury-Weltman chameleon model, solar system constraints obtained from the Cassini mission, and parameter bounds obtained from the LAGEOS satellite. It is furthermore suggested that a comparison of ground-based and space-based multipole moments of the geopotential could reveal a possible chameleon effect.