Quantum sensor networks as exotic field telescopes for multi-messenger astronomy

Multi-messenger astronomy, the coordinated observation of different classes of signals that originate from the same astrophysical event, provides a wealth of information about astrophysical processes1. So far, multi-messenger astronomy has correlated signals from known fundamental forces and standard model particles like electromagnetic radiation, neutrinos and gravitational waves. Many of the open questions of modern physics suggest the existence of exotic fields with light quanta (with masses ≪1 eV c−2). Quantum sensor networks could be used to search for astrophysical signals that are predicted by theories beyond the standard model2 that address these questions. Here, we show that networks of precision quantum sensors that, by design, are shielded from or are insensitive to conventional standard model physics signals can be a powerful tool for multi-messenger astronomy. We consider the case in which high-energy astrophysical events produce intense bursts of exotic low-mass fields (ELFs), and we propose a novel model for the potential detection of an ELF signal on the basis of general assumptions. We estimate ELF signal amplitudes, delays, rates and distances of gravitational-wave sources to which global networks of atomic magnetometers3–5 and atomic clocks6–8 could be sensitive. We find that such precision quantum sensor networks can function as ELF telescopes to detect signals