Atomic clocks in space could solve the mystery of dark matter, experts say

The tech to put this concept into practice already exists, the team notes, with NASA’s Sun-analysing Parker Space Probe already operating inside the orbit of Mercury.

Dr Eby said: “A possible future mission, with shielding and trajectory very similar to the Parker Solar Probe, but carrying an atomic clock apparatus, could be sufficient to carry out the search.”

Hunting for dark matter is not the only reason why you might want to place a quantum clock on board a spacecraft, the researchers noted.

Dr Eby explained: “Long-distance space missions, including possible future missions to Mars, will require exceptional timekeeping as would be provided by atomic clocks in space.

The full findings of the study were published in the journal Nature Astronomy.

Article source: https://www.express.co.uk/news/science/1706246/atomic-clocks-space-could-solve-mystery-dark-matter-experts-say