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Practical Limitations on Astrophysical Observations of Methanol to Investigate Variations in the Proton-to-Electron Mass Ratio
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 10:10 authored by Simon EllingsenSimon Ellingsen, Voronkov, M, Breen, SThe possibility of using astrophysical observations of rotational transitions in the methanol molecule to measure, or constrain temporal and spatial variations in the proton-to-electron mass ratio (u) has recently been investigated by several groups. Here we outline some of the practical considerations of making such observations, including both the instrumental and astrophysical limitations which exist at present. This leads us to conclude that such observations are unlikely to be able to improve evidence either for, or against the presence of variations in the proton-to-electron mass ratio by more than an order of magnitude beyond current limits.
History
Publication title
Physical Review LettersVolume
107Issue
27Article number
270801Number
270801Pagination
1-5ISSN
0031-9007Department/School
School of Natural SciencesPublisher
American Physical SocietyPlace of publication
United StatesRights statement
Copyright 2011 American Physical SocietyRepository Status
- Restricted