Gravity gradient sensing on moving platforms with quantum technology

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Atom interferometry uses the wave-like nature of atoms to perform ultra-precise measurements of inertial forces, such as gravity. Recent reductions in form factor have allowed these sensors to become field-deployable with several surveys highlighting their use for detecting gravitational anomalies beneath out feet such as tunnels, sink holes, aquifers and utility pipes. As part of this push, the Quantum Sensing group at the University of Birmingham has developed a portable gravity gradiometer which recently detected a tunnel buried underneath a road. The system is exceptionally resilient to field-relevant systematic effects, particularly ground vibration, with a potential to open up new applications in high-resolution sub-surface gravity mapping. One of the next key challenges is to operate the sensor in dynamic conditions, allowing us to conduct new surveys for gravity gradient map matching, a navigational tool which is resilient against loss of satellite navigation. As a step towards this, this project will present results from several trials on moving platforms including the first demonstration of gravity gradiometry measurements operating on a maritime vessel at sea. The system was characterised extensively in the laboratory and on trials in order to get a better understanding of the challenges these sensors will need to overcome in the next stage of their development. In addition, work has begun on enhancing the performance of quantum sensors on moving platforms, including high-bandwidth measurement approaches as well as optimal temporal phase control of the interferometry beams. This work will also assess the limitations of these techniques in real-world conditions, progressing the roadmap to increased robustness and practical, application-relevant demonstrations.