Navigation
Quantum sensors in Navigation
Quantum magnetometer has its place in global positioning and complement the existing GPS technology.
Satellite free positioning
Developing quantum technology for navigation is motivated by situations where it could be impossible to use conventional GPS signals due to extenuating circumstances, and their is a need for a passive, always-on solution that is unjammable. If we are able to detect and use the Earth's magnetic field effectively, it fits this criteria.
Satellite free "all-in-one" compact sensor
Quantum sensing has the potential to significantly improve navigation by providing highly sensitive and precise tools for detecting and measuring various physical quantities, such as magnetic fields and acceleration.
One example of how quantum sensing can be used for navigation is through the use of quantum magnetometers, which are highly sensitive instruments that can detect the presence of magnetic fields. These magnetometers can be used to measure the magnitude and direction of Earth's magnetic field, which can be used to determine a device's location, orientation, and movement. This information can be used to enable precise navigation in a wide range of applications, such as self-driving cars, drones, and mobile devices.
Another example is the use of quantum sensors based on atomic clocks, which are highly accurate and stable clocks that can be used to measure time and frequency with high precision. These clocks can be used to enable precise navigation by providing a highly accurate reference for time and frequency, which can be used to determine a device's location, orientation, and movement.
Overall, quantum sensing has the potential to significantly improve navigation by providing new and highly sensitive tools for detecting and measuring various physical quantities, such as magnetic fields and accelerations, which can be used to enable precise and accurate navigation in a wide range of applications.
Position and direction
In contrast to conventional magnetic sensors found on ships and aircraft, diamond-based quantum sensing has the ability to measure both the strength and the direction of magnetic fields. A strong benefit of this quantum-based technology is its capacity to generate a realistic magnetic field vector while also having a very wide dynamic range and bandwidth.
Unjammable
Diamond-based quantum sensing could be the most dependable and secure way for example to conduct search-and-rescue missions thanks to its great sensing capabilities and compact size. One small sensor can be used for communication and navigation.
Alternatives to GPS are critical
There are a few reasons why it is important to have alternatives to GPS:
- Dependency: Unlike Quantum sensors, GPS depends on satellites that can be destroyed or jammed. The aerospace is highly venerable in military conflicts and in military most of the ground battlefield depend on the GPS technology.
- Reliability: GPS is a very reliable system, but it can be disrupted or jammed by various factors such as solar flares, atmospheric conditions, and interference from other devices. Having alternatives means that there is a backup plan in case GPS is not available.
- Cost: GPS is a free service, but the equipment needed to use it can be expensive. Alternative systems may be less expensive and more accessible, especially for smaller businesses or individuals.
- Accuracy: GPS is generally very accurate, but it can be affected by various factors such as the position of the GPS satellites, the altitude of the receiver, and the presence of obstacles. Alternative systems may be more accurate in certain situations.
- Control: GPS is controlled by the U.S. government, which means that it can be turned off or restricted in certain situations. Having alternatives gives countries and individuals more control over their own navigation and positioning systems.
Overall, having alternatives to GPS helps to ensure that there are reliable and accurate navigation and positioning options available, regardless of the specific circumstances.
