The test, carried out in collaboration with the Royal Navy, is the latest step in a years-long effort to turn quantum-enhanced inertial sensors from a physics experiment into a real-world technology.
The quantum sensors being developed at Imperial College London use quantum phenomena (the wave-like behaviour of cold atoms) to accurately measure accelerations and rotations. If we know our initial position, measurements of acceleration and rotation can be used to work out our location during a journey, without ever having to send or receive a signal remotely. They are highly accurate, remain stable over long periods of time, and are resilient to spoofing attempts.
Designing and building the sensors in a lab in South Kensington is one thing, making them rugged and robust enough to operate onboard a ship is another.
Dr Joseph Cotter, Lead scientist for the quantum sensor project, said:
“The Arctic field trial lets us test how these devices perform in unpredictable environments, and helps us work out what we still need to do to make them shock resistant, and able to withstand life at sea.”
Quantum-enhanced inertial sensors could revolutionise industries such as aerospace, agriculture, maritime and transport.
The first Imperial quantum sensors for navigation were demonstrated in 2018, and first deployed aboard the Royal Navy research ship the XV Patrick Blackett in 2023. The Imperial quantum sensor has also been deployed on the London Underground, and may one day enable more reliable signalling systems in rail.
Commander Matt Steele Royal Navy, SO1 Future Technology for the Royal Navy’s Disruptive Capabilities and Technologies Office, said: “As Head of Futures in the Royal Navy’s Disruptive Capabilities and Technologies Office (DCTO), I am delighted that Dr Joseph Cotter’s team at Imperial College London was able to test its revised Quantum Inertial Navigation Sensing (INS) technology, onboard MV Anvil Point.
“This experiment builds on previous sea trials, using the RoRo fleet, which has enabled iterative development and performance improvements to the sensor.
“The DCTO looks forwards to continuing this long-term collaboration with Imperial College London to develop a GNSS-independent INS prototype and demonstrate quantum operational advantage for the Royal Navy.”
