The hypothesis of the variations of the gravitational constant when the distance between the attracting masses is increased is considered. It is shown that at the present time there are two possible ways of checking this hypothesis experimentally. The first consists in using sensitive modern gradiometers to measure G at distances ~ 10m with an accuracy of 1%. The second consists in using second-generation gravitational antennas, which should enable one to measure G at distances ~100 m with an accuracy of 0,1%. In the latter case the experiment is identical with the procedure for calibrating a gravitational antenna in components of the Riemann tensor. The results of these experiments enable one to formulate limitations on the mass of the particles of the hypothetical field responsible for the interaction, which differs from the Newtonian field.
Кафедра физики колебаний