Q-Drones

Quantum Sensing From the Sky

Back in 2022, Matt Swayne, writer for The Quantum Insider (TQI) penned an article titled “Researchers: Quantum Drones May Be Filling The Skies, But Challenges Remain”. He could hardly have been more prescient.

According to the researchers, who report their findings in IEEE, airborne craft that use quantum computation and quantum sensors could provide a range of services — from military to engineering to environmental monitoring. - Matt Swayne, TQI

This past week, Global Quantum Intelligence reported on an advance by Aquark Technologies. “Aquark Technologies has successfully demonstrated continuous trapping of cold atoms suitable for sensing while flying on a drone. The world first achievement will support an array of applications, including enhanced navigation, precise measurements, and situational awareness, all with the potential to revolutionize multiple industries.”

Navigation and measuring systems of the past had to deal with underground, underwater, fog, extreme temperatures and jamming challenges. According to the recent field trials, Aquark validated the trapping, cooling, and continuous operation of cold atoms on a less than 10kg quadcopter drone….”where it withstood freezing temperatures, high humidity fog, and complex manoeuvres, operating for over an hour on internal power during full-day trials.”

So we have an example of quantum sensing in operation, but it’s certainly not the first of its’ kind. But first let’s consider what quantum sensing is, how it works and what its’ maturity truly is in present day applications.

Image source: Brian Lenahan/Midjourney