Theoretical physics for and in space

Advances in fundamental physics, such as gravitation or quantum theory, can have important technological implications for ESA. On the other hand, space is a very good environment to test new theories in physics. We perform theoretical research and monitor new developments mainly in the fields of gravitation, quantum physics and high-energy physics.

Welcome to the webpages related to ACT activities in the field of Fundamental Physics, where you will find information on past and ongoing projects.

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The ACT performs theoretical research (read more about current and past projects) and follows the recent developments in theoretical and experimental activities in the areas of gravitation, high-energy physics, quantum theory and condensed matter physics. We keep ESA aware of new developments which could make feasible old concepts that had previously been discarded as non-realistic or could yield novel concepts in ESA's space missions. At the same time we identify non-issues that either rely on common misconceptions or turn out to be unfeasible due to technological limits even on a long-time perspective. An important part of our work is to lead or assist interdisciplinary projects within the ACT, in which general physics play an important role.

Gravitational Physics

A better understanding of gravity and its interplay with the other known and with putative unknown forces is mainly motivated by the fact that the by far dominant force in spacecraft dynamics is gravity. Thus, although currently hypothetical, the control of gravity by the coupling to other forces would extremely enhance ESA's capabilities for space missions.

High-Energy Physics

Most of the current theoretical and experimental research on high-energy physics does not allow immediate applications within ESA. Still there remain important topics to be followed, anti-matter or anti-matter assisted propulsion are an example thereof.

Quantum Physics

The rapid developments in the understanding of extended quantum objects and entanglement hint towards revolutionary new concepts from this field. Space applications of quantum communication and quantum teleportation are just one topic closely followed by the ACT.

Condensed Matter Physics

Activities in this field are mainly related to the use of superconductors in space and the interaction between gravity and mesoscopic quantum systems. Parts of this topic is also covered by Nanotechnologies.

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We explicitly encourage non-space-related researchers to join in!

Related Events

Scientific and Fundamental Aspects of the Galileo Programme
ESA is organising a workshop about the fundamental aspects and scientific applications of Galileo and GNSS. There will be a special session about General Relativity, where the ACT will present a study on relativistic gravimetry.

Links

• Fundamental Physics missions at ESA
• The Fundamental Physics Roadmap Advisory Team

To find general publications on physics visit the arXiv. High-energy physics related literature can also be found at SPIRES.