Macroscopic Quantum Interference in Dark Matter Wave Scattering with MICROSCOPE

Abstract

Ultralight dark matter behaves as a coherent wave, yet its quantum interference effects of elastic scattering with multiple targets have remained unexplored. We show that the nested test masses of MICROSCOPE realize such an ``interferometer'' for dark-matter wave scattering. Amplitudes from the two concentric cylinders interfere and redistribute the induced force between them. This effect produces unique and rotation-modulated signals set by the target geometry. Developing the theoretical framework and applying it to MICROSCOPE data, we obtain leading constraints on quadratic dark-matter--nucleon coupling for masses $10^{-3}$--$10^{-2}\,$eV, reaching cross sections of order $10^{-52}$ cm$^2$.