Gravitational wave detectors based on matter wave interferometers (MIGO) are no better than laser interferometers (LIGO)

TL;DR

This paper refutes claims that matter wave interferometers outperform laser interferometers in gravitational wave detection, clarifies the correct theoretical approach, and provides a broader discussion on atom interferometers for gravitational wave detection.

Contribution

It demonstrates that matter wave interferometers are not superior to laser interferometers and corrects previous misconceptions about their sensitivity, offering a comprehensive theoretical framework.

Findings

Matter wave interferometers do not surpass laser interferometers in sensitivity.

The correct physical description does not rely solely on the geodesic deviation equation.

The derived quantum dynamics equations are applicable to various related problems.

Abstract

We show that a recent claim that matter wave interferometers have a much higher sensitivity than laser interferometers for a comparable physical setup is unfounded. We point out where the mistake in the earlier analysis is made. We also disprove the claim that only a description based on the geodesic deviation equation can produce the correct physical result. The equations for the quantum dynamics of non-relativistic massive particles in a linearly perturbed spacetime derived here are useful for treating a wider class of related physical problems. A general discussion on the use of atom interferometers for the detection of gravitational waves is also provided.