Entangled atom interferometry in free fall
The INTENTAS project is developing an atomic quantum sensor for use in space. These sen-sors enable the precise measurements of various quantities, such as gravity. They are used in many fields, including timekeeping, navigation and earthquake monitoring. As part of the IN-TENTAS project, a novel sensor is being developed. Its performance is currently being demon-strated under microgravity conditions – as produced in the Einstein-Elevator in Hanover for up to four seconds. The goal is to take an important step towards the future use of high-precision interferometers in space using this quantum sensor technology.
By applying an innovative all-optical method to produce ultracold atoms and generating entan-glement through spin-changing collisions, the sensor’s sensitivity and accuracy are significantly improved. A successful demonstration of this technology will pave the way for space-based applications that benefit both science and society. From mapping Earth’s gravity field to im-proving satellite navigation systems, INTENTAS offers a wide range of future applications.
Link:
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute for Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing
E-Mail contact-dlr@DLR.de
