NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is leading development of the world’s first space-based quantum gravity sensor, a revolutionary instrument that uses ultra-cold atoms to detect minute variations in Earth’s gravitational field from orbit. This initiative, backed by NASA’s Earth Science Technology Office, represents a significant advancement in quantum sensing technology with far-reaching applications.
The Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder (QGGPf) works by measuring the difference in acceleration between two clouds of rubidium atoms cooled to near absolute zero, where they behave as matter waves. These atoms serve as test masses that respond to gravitational differences – falling faster in areas of stronger gravity. This approach ensures measurement consistency while reducing sensitivity to environmental influences.
Compared to traditional gravity sensors, the QGGPf offers substantial advantages in both form and function. At just 0.3 cubic yards and 275 pounds, it’s remarkably compact and lightweight, making it viable for deployment on a single spacecraft. Quantum technology also promises up to 10 times greater sensitivity than classical sensing methods.
Earth’s gravitational field fluctuates as mass shifts beneath the surface. By precisely mapping these variations, scientists can identify subsurface features invisible to conventional observation techniques, including underground water reservoirs, oil deposits, and mineral resources. Such data holds immense value for environmental monitoring, resource management, and national security.
The project involves significant collaboration between NASA, academia, and private companies. JPL is partnering with AOSense and Infleqtion on sensor technology, while NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center works with Vector Atomic to develop the laser optical system.
Scheduled for launch near the decade’s end, this pathfinder mission primarily aims to validate new technologies for manipulating light-matter interactions at atomic scales. The innovations developed could eventually enhance Earth observation capabilities and transform planetary exploration by improving our understanding of how gravity shapes distant worlds.
As JPL’s Jason Hyon noted, the technology is so sensitive it could “determine the mass of the Himalayas using atoms,” highlighting the instrument’s extraordinary precision and potential impact on multiple scientific disciplines.
Reference: “Quantum gravity gradiometry for future mass change science” by Ben Stray, Xavier Bosch-Lluis, Robert Thompson, Clayton Okino, Nan Yu, Norman Lay, Brian Muirhead, Jason Hyon, Holly Leopardi, Peter Brereton, Anand Mylapore, Bryant Loomis, Scott Luthcke, Parminder Ghuman, Srinivas Bettadpur, Maike Diana Lachmann, Thomas Stolz, Christopher Kuehl, Dennis Weise, Holger Ahlers, Christian Schubert, Ahmad Bawamia and Sheng-wey Chiow, 14 March 2025, EPJ Quantum Technology. DOI: 10.1140/epjqt/s40507-025-00338-1
