Quantum sensor networks as exotic field telescopes for multi-messenger
  astronomy
  Multi-messenger astronomy, the coordinated observation of different classes
of signals originating from the same astrophysical event, provides a wealth of
information about astrophysical processes with far-reaching implications. So
far, the focus of multi-messenger astronomy has been the search for
conventional signals from known fundamental forces and standard model
particles, like gravitational waves (GW). In addition to these known effects,
quantum sensor networks could be used to search for astrophysical signals
predicted by beyond-standard-model (BSM) theories. Exotic bosonic fields are
ubiquitous features of BSM theories and appear while seeking to understand the
nature of dark matter and dark energy and solve the hierarchy and strong CP
problems. We consider the case where high-energy astrophysical events could
produce intense bursts of exotic low-mass fields (ELFs). We propose to expand
the toolbox of multi-messenger astronomy to include networks of precision
quantum sensors that by design are shielded from or insensitive to conventional
standard-model physics signals. We estimate ELF signal amplitudes, delays,
rates, and distances of GW sources to which global networks of atomic
magnetometers and atomic clocks could be sensitive. We find that, indeed, such
precision quantum sensor networks can function as ELF telescopes to detect
signals from sources generating ELF bursts of sufficient intensity. Thus ELFs,
if they exist, could act as additional messengers for astrophysical events.
