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Summary

Summary

STE-QUEST
Space-Time Explorer and QUantum Equivalence Principle Space Test
Theme What are the fundamental physical laws of the Universe?
Primary Goal To test Einstein's Equivalence Principle to high precision and search for new fundamental constituents and interactions in the Universe.
Observables Differential acceleration measurements of freely falling atoms;
Clock redshift measurements.
Spacecraft and Instruments Single spacecraft carrying:
 -  Differential atom interferometer operating on the two rubidium isotopes;
 -  Time and frequency transfer links in the microwave and optical domain for space-to-ground comparisons of clocks.
Orbit Highly elliptical orbit around the Earth
Lifetime 5 years
Type M-class candidate mission

 

Mission timeline

  • 2024: Targeted launch date
  • February 2014: PLATO was selected as M3 - the third medium-class mission in ESA's Cosmic Vision Programme
  • 2013: Under assessment – decision from the Science Programme Committee (SPC) expected by February 2014
  • February 2013: Instrument consortia selected
  • October 2011: Invitation to Tender issued to industry
  • April 2011: Beginning of assessment phase
  • February 2011: STE-QUEST is one of four missions selected for further study
  • 2010: proposed as an M-Class mission in response to Call for Proposals
  • 2009: Consultation process with scientific community
February 2014: PLATO was selected as M3 - the third medium-class mission in ESA's Cosmic Vision Programme
Last Update: 1 September 2019
29-Mar-2024 10:00 UT

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https://sci.esa.int/s/w7gMZXw

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