Cold atom interferometry sensors: physics and technologies
A scientific background for EU policy-making
This report describes the physical principles underpinning cold atom interferometry (CAI) and shows how they can be leveraged to develop high-performance inertial and gravity sensors; the distinguishing properties and the maturity level of such sensors will also be assessed.
Proof-of-principles demonstrations have been made for CAI-based accelerometers and gyroscopes, which can enable long-term autonomous navigation and precise positioning for ships, submarines, and satellites. CAI-based gravimeters and gravity gradiometers have been developed and are being tested on the ground; satellite-based systems could in the future be used to monitor the Earth gravity field. This would allow a better understanding of several geophysical and climate phenomena which require long-term policies solidly supported by data.
Quantum sensors based on cold atom interferometry may therefore impact existing and future EU programmes on space, defence, and Earth observation. This report provides background knowledge of the field to a non-specialist audience, and in particular to EU policymakers involved in technology support and potential applications.
TRAVAGNIN Martino;
2020-07-08
Publications Office of the European Union
JRC121223
978-92-76-20405-3 (online),
1831-9424 (online),
EUR 30289 EN,
OP KJ-NA-30289-EN-N (online),
https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC121223,
10.2760/315209 (online),
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