Dyson’s Conjecture on Single-Graviton Detection

Determine whether any conceivable experiment in our universe can detect a single graviton, thereby establishing or refuting Dyson’s conjecture that single-graviton detection is impossible.

Background

The paper motivates the search for quantum gravity evidence by highlighting the challenge of detecting gravitons directly. It references Dyson’s conjecture, which asserts the impossibility of detecting a single graviton via any conceivable experiment, framing the broader context within which indirect detection strategies are pursued.

The authors propose an indirect detection approach via decoherence of entanglement between macroscopic mirrors in an interferometer caused by graviton noise, particularly from squeezed states produced during inflation. This context underscores why resolving Dyson’s conjecture—whether single-graviton detection is possible—is central to the field and informs alternative strategies such as those presented in the paper.