arXiv : AEDGE: Atomic Experiment for Dark Matter and Gravity Exploration in Space

We propose in this White Papera concept for a space experiment using cold atoms to search for ultra- light dark matter, and to detect gravitational wavesin the frequency range between the most sensitive ranges of LISA and the terrestrial LIGO/Virgo/ KAGRA/ INDIGOexperiments. This interdisciplinary experiment, called Atomic Experiment for Dark Matterand Gravity Exploration (AEDGE), will also complement other planned searches for dark matter, and exploit synergies with other gravitational wavedetectors. We give examples of the extended range of sensitivity to ultra- light dark matteroffered by AEDGE, and how its gravitational-wavemeasurements could explore the assembly of super-massive black holes, first-order phase transitions in the early universe and cosmic strings. AEDGE will be based upon technologies now being developed for terrestrial experiments using cold atoms, and will benefit from the space experience obtained with, e.g., LISA and cold atom experiments in microgravity. Submission in response to the Call for White Papersfor the Voyage 2050 long-term plan in the ESA Science Programme. ESA limits White Paperauthors to 30. However, we welcome as supporting authors participants in the Workshop on Atomic Experiments for Dark Matterand Gravity Exploration held at CERN: ({\tt this https URL}), as well as any other interested scientists, who can register using this form:{\tt this https URL}. Registration will close on September 30, 2019, after which a new arXiv version will be prepared and submitted to a journal for publication, listing the supporting authors and taking into account any submitted comments.