【新华社】量子“捕手”为寻找宇宙“隐形邻居”提供新工具

Core Insights - The research team from the University of Science and Technology of China has developed the world's first quantum sensing network based on atomic nuclear spins, significantly enhancing the sensitivity for dark matter detection [1][2] - Dark matter constitutes approximately 26.8% of the universe's total mass, yet it does not emit light or interact electromagnetically with ordinary matter, making it a critical component of the universe's structure [1] - The study introduces a new quantum sensor technology that can store fleeting signals for nearly a minute and amplify weak signals by 100 times, improving the chances of detecting dark matter interactions [1][2] Group 1 - The quantum sensing network connects Hefei and Hangzhou, utilizing satellite synchronization for precise time correlation, which enhances the reliability of detection results by filtering out noise [2] - Although the team did not capture a clear signal of the "dark matter wall," they established stringent limits on dark matter models across a wide range of axion masses, achieving a precision 40 times greater than astronomical observations using supernovae [2] Group 2 - This breakthrough adds a more precise "quantum tool" to humanity's arsenal for dark matter detection, paving the way for future collaborations with gravitational wave observatories to explore more cosmic mysteries [4] - The research team plans to expand the quantum detection network's coverage through global networking and space deployment to further enhance dark matter detection sensitivity [4]