Global Quantum Sensor Networks as Probes of the Dark Sector

Abstract

Most dark matter searches to date employ a single sensor for detection. In this chapter, we explore the power of distributed networks in dark matter searches. Compared to a single sensor, networks offer several advantages, such as the ability to probe spatiotemporal signatures of the putative signal and, as a result, an improved rejection of false positives, better sensitivity, and improved confidence in the dark matter origin of the sought-after signal. We illustrate our general discussion with two examples: (1) the Global Network of Optical Magnetometers for Exotic physics searches (GNOME) and (2) the constellation of atomic clocks on board satellites of the Global Positioning System (GPS).