'Edison Moment': Scientists Develop Quantum Sensor That Can See Inside Earth

Scientists have managed to invent a quantum sensor that is being called an "Edison moment" with far-reaching implications for science.

For the uninitiated, Thomas Alva Edison is credited for inventing many devices in various fields - especially the incandescent light bulb and one of the earliest motion picture cameras.

iStock

Quantum sensing's first practical application

Now, scientists are claiming to have successfully shown the first practical application of quantum sensing. In theory, this tech combines the power of quantum physics and the study of Earth's gravity to look at the ground below our feet.

Also read: DRDO's Quantum Key Distribution Tech Will Make Military Communications More Secure

The device is known as quantum gravity gradiometer and was unveiled in a new study in Nature. Developed by scientists at the University of Birmingham under contract with the United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence, this marks the first time quantum sensing has been employed outside of a lab setting.

Uncredited

What does this invention mean?

Scientists could effectively look at underground structures without using intrusive techniques. Traditional gravity sensors, as explained by Physics World take a long time to detect changes in gravity and can be interrupted by any nearby vibrations.

Quantum-based sensors can assess underground structures more effectively and are low-cost. It could measure even the tiniest of changes in gravity fields for objects of various sizes and compositions that are underground - including human-made structures made centuries ago.

iStock

Also read: Indian Scientists Develop New Technique For Efficient Quantum Computing

In a press release, University of Birmingham¡¯s Kai Bongs, the head of UK's Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Timing called it a "breakthrough," adding that this invention has "the potential to end reliance on poor records and luck as we explore, build and repair." "This is an ¡®Edison moment¡¯ in sensing that will transform society, human understanding and economies," Bongs added.

Besides giving a peek at underground life on Earth, it could help predict natural disasters like volcanoes. What do you think about groundbreaking technology? Let us know in the comments below.

For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com.

References

Al-Sibai, N. (2022, February 25). Scientists Invent ¡°Profound¡± Quantum Sensor That Can Peer Into the Earth. Futurism.

Stray, B. (2022, February 23). Atomic changes can map subterranean structures. Nature.

Author, N. (2021, December 9). Sensing gravity, the quantum way ¨C. Physics World.