Quantum Sensing and Timing Technologies

Boris Kantsepolsky, Itzhak Aviv, Ruti Gafni +2 more

Scott E. Crawford, Gary R. Lander, Hari P. Paudel +9 more

Michael Holynski, Miles J. Padgett

Boris Kantsepolsky, Itzhak Aviv, Roye Weitzfeld +1 more

The current rise of quantum technology is compelled by quantum sensing research. Thousands of research labs are developing and testing a broad range of sensor prototypes. However, there is a lack of knowledge about specific applications and real-world use cases where the benefits of these sensors will be most pronounced. This study presents a comprehensive review of quantum sensing state-of-practice. It also provides a detailed analysis of how quantum sensing overcomes the existing limitations of sensor-driven systems’ precision and performance. Based on the review of over 500 quantum sensor prototype reports, we determined four groups of quantum sensors and discussed their readiness for commercial usage. We concluded that quantum magnetometry and quantum optics are the most advanced sensing technologies with empirically proven results. In turn, quantum timing and kinetics are still in the early stages of practical validation. In addition, we defined four systems domains in which quantum sensors offer a solution for existing limitations of conventional sensing technologies. These domains are 1) GPS-free positioning and navigating services, 2) time-based operations, 3) topological visibility, and 4) environment detection, prediction, and modeling. Finally, we discussed the current constraints of quantum sensing technologies and offered directions for future research.

Arnaud Landragin

Chander K. Velu, Keith Norman, Yuzhen Zhu +2 more

Abstract This chapter provides an overview of quantum sensing, imaging, and position, navigation and timing (PNT) technologies. It explains their significance in enhancing measurement precision and resilience. The chapter discusses initial deployment of quantum technologies in these areas with applications in climate change, healthcare diagnostics, defence systems, space exploration, and transportation. It highlights the opportunities as well as challenges in integrating these quantum applications with existing technology architectures, including interoperability, scalability, and cost considerations. Case examples illustrate how quantum systems can operate in environments where classical technologies face limitations. The chapter also discusses the possible business and economic implications of quantum sensing, imaging, and PNT and identifies research questions for further exploration.