NASA is set to launch the first quantum sensor to measure gravity from space, aiming to transform how scientists observe the invisible forces that shape Earth’s surface and subsurface. The mission, led by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and supported by NASA’s Earth Science Technology Office, will test a prototype known as the Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder.
The sensor is designed to identify underground water supplies, petroleum reserves, and geological changes linked to climate and seismic activity by measuring minute variations in Earth’s gravity field. This technology relies on two clouds of ultra-cold rubidium atoms cooled to temperatures near absolute zero, which behave like matter waves at these extreme conditions.
According to Jason Hyon, chief technologist for Earth science at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, this technology has the potential to “determine the mass of the Himalayas using atoms.” The Pathfinder’s instrument is compact and lightweight, weighing around 276 pounds, making it an attractive candidate for space missions.
The upcoming flight is a technology validation mission designed to test key components for manipulating light and matter at the atomic level. NASA plans to collaborate with several quantum-focused startups, including AOSense, Infleqtion, and Vector Atomic, which are contributing components such as the laser and sensor head subsystems.
Beyond Earth, this technology could one day be used to study other planets, moons, and the role of gravity in shaping celestial bodies. The project’s success will lead to planetary science applications and fundamental physics applications, according to Hyon.
Source: https://www.iotworldtoday.com/quantum/nasa-to-launch-quantum-gravity-sensor-for-earth-observation