A device that measures acceleration very precisely using quantum effects could be used for navigation when GPS is unavailable
Physics
28 October 2022
A quantum accelerometer could help ships navigate d13/Shutterstock
A quantum device that can determine its position in three dimensions is more accurate than non-quantum versions. Vehicles could use it to navigate even if GPS stopped working.
One way to keep track of something’s position is with an accelerometer, which is a small device that is found in everything from phones to drones. Accelerometers work by detecting changes in movement and therefore position.
It has been known for decades that quantum effects could be used make more accurate accelerometers, but most …
