Experimental Test of Pre-Realization Phase Orientation via Weak–Then–Click Detection

This work proposes a minimal, falsifiable experimental test of whether phase orientation (sign) can stabilize prior to realization, independently of amplitude and discrete detection events. The test uses a dual-channel interferometric setup combining a weak, phase-sensitive, non-projective readout (e.g. balanced homodyne detection) with a separate final click detector that operationally defines realization. The key observable is sign coherence, quantified through model-independent nearest-neighbour metrics and benchmarked against blind permutation null models. The central predictions are: statistically significant sign coherence appearing before final click events, invariance of this coherence under amplitude-magnitude scrambling, and disappearance of coherence under controlled dephasing. The proposal does not modify quantum mechanics, introduce hidden variables, or rely on interpretational assumptions. It tests a single empirical question: whether phase orientation constitutes a stable, measurable degree of freedom prior to realization. The experiment can be implemented as a low-overhead extension of standard quantum-optics setups and is intended to motivate direct experimental investigation.