Probing geometric information using the Unruh effect in the vacuum

We present a new method by which, in principle, it is possible to “see in absolute darkness,” i.e., without exchanging any real quanta through quantum fields. This is possible because objects modify the mode structure of the vacuum in their vicinity. The new method probes the mode structure of the vacuum through the Unruh effect, i.e., by recording the excitation rates of quantum systems that are accelerated.