Atom interferometry gravity-gradiometer for the determination of the Newtonian gravitational constant G
نویسنده
چکیده
We developed a gravity-gradiometer based on atom interferometry for the determination of the Newtonian gravitational constant G. The apparatus, combining a Rb fountain, Raman interferometry and a juggling scheme for fast launch of two atomic clouds, was specifically designed to reduce possible systematic effects. We present instrument performances and show that the sensor is able to detect the gravitational field induced by source masses. A discussion of projected accuracy for G measurement using this new scheme shows that the results of the experiment will be significant to discriminate between previous inconsistent values. PACS. 03.75.Dg Atom and neutron interferometry – 04.80.–y Experimental studies of gravity – 06.20.Jr Determination of fundamental constants
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