Possible tests of curvature effects in weak gravitational fields

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential for optical experiments to detect curvature effects in weak gravitational fields, focusing on particle and photon trajectories as predicted by general relativity, and assesses the feasibility of Earth-based tests.

Contribution

It proposes specific optical methods to test general relativity's predictions for weak gravitational fields using Earth-based experiments.

Findings

Optical methods can potentially detect curvature effects in weak fields

Feasibility of Earth-based experiments for testing general relativity

Sensitivity requirements for detecting predicted trajectories

Abstract

We analyze the possibility of detecting, with optical methods, particle and photon trajectories predicted by general relativity for a weak spherically-symmetric gravitational field. We discuss the required sensitivities and the possibility of performing specific experiments on the Earth.