Sensing
The domain of quantum sensing aims to increase precision and sensitivity in many different areas and applications. Quantum sensors exploit the quantum nature of light and matter to measure physical quantities such as frequency, acceleration, electric and magnetic fields, gravitational variations or temperature as precisely as possible. Unlike classical sensors that are limited by physical noise, quantum sensors use individual or entangled quantum systems, such as atoms and photons, as probes to detect minuscule changes in their environment and register the smallest of phenomena.
Gravitation, rotation and acceleration
Quantum sensing offers a powerful new way to measure changes in gravitation, rotation and acceleration. By detecting incredibly subtle effect changes, it exploits the extreme sensitivity of quantum states to external influences. Devices such as cold atom interferometers enable ultraprecise measurements of gravitational waves, acceleration and rotational forces.
Time
Quantum clocks are the most precise and stable timekeeping devices ever created, using the quantum properties of atoms to define a second with incredible accuracy. Unlike traditional mechanical or quartz clocks, which rely on imperfect physical oscillations, quantum clocks use the constant and identical "ticks" of atoms as they transition between energy states when activated by lasers. The most advanced quantum clocks are so precise that they would not gain or lose a second in more than 15 billion years, which is longer than the age of the universe. The unprecedented accuracy of quantum clocks supports applications in (extremely precise -cm-level-) navigation (without use of satellite signals), geodesy and fundamental physics.
Magnetic fields
Beyond precise timekeeping, sensors exploiting quantum properties for the extremely sensitive detection of magnetic phenomena can also be used to dramatically improve navigation. By measuring rotation, acceleration, the Earth's magnetic and gravitational fields and time, the main components are available for a quantum inertial navigation system where no satellites are needed. Other areas of application include advanced medical diagnostics, geological surveying and material science research.
Chemical detection
Quantum sensing has practical uses in chemical detection, including developing highly sensitive diagnostic tools for medical applications like disease detection, enabling advanced environmental monitoring for pollutants and greenhouse gases and facilitating new methods for material science research by characterising molecules at the nanoscale. This technology offers unparalleled sensitivity and precision for detecting trace chemicals and understanding molecular interactions.
Imaging
Imaging systems using quantum correlations (e.g. entanglement) can be used to enhance resolution, sensitivity or contrast beyond classical limits. Typical areas of application are medical applications such as high-resolution brain scans, disease detection by analysing weak biological signals, industrial material testing to identify flaws that could lead to catastrophic failure and defence applications such as enhanced surveillance and navigation.