QT Gravity for the Global Geodetic Reference Frame
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Birmingham
Department Name: School of Physics and Astronomy
Abstract
This collaboration will open an adventurous new application for quantum sensing with wide reaching applications in the environmental sciences. We are aiming for improving the reference frame used by researchers in climate science to allow higher precision climate data to be collected, better models to be made and improved evidence for political decisions to be generated. As stated by the UN: "The Global Geodetic Reference Frame (GGRF) is the foundation for evidence-based policies and decisions, it underpins the collection and management of nationally integrated geospatial information and is used to monitor our dynamic Earth. Thus, the GGRF has direct societal relevance." This is the pivotal element we are targeting in this project.
In more detail, we are using the latest developments in quantum sensors and perform research into making them sufficiently robust to achieve world-record precision inside the UK Space Geodesy Facility in Herstmonceux. In parallel we will research into the tools to use the continuous stream of precise gravity data from the quantum sensor to better understand the tide models and other effects influencing the measurements defining our geodetic reference frames.
In more detail, we are using the latest developments in quantum sensors and perform research into making them sufficiently robust to achieve world-record precision inside the UK Space Geodesy Facility in Herstmonceux. In parallel we will research into the tools to use the continuous stream of precise gravity data from the quantum sensor to better understand the tide models and other effects influencing the measurements defining our geodetic reference frames.
| Description | The project has been involved in several engagements with industry, which we expect to further develop over the rest of the project. These are helping to highlight the importance of infrastructure such as satellite laser ranging. |
| First Year Of Impact | 2024 |
| Description | An exhibition stall at the UK Quantum Technology Showcase (2025:88) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | An exhibition stall at the UK Quantum Technology Showcase, presenting activities in quantum sensing from the Unviersity of Birmingham. Led to requests for involvement, and requests for further information. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://iuk-business-connect.org.uk/events/uk-national-quantum-technologies-showcase-2024/ |
| Description | Hosted DSIT Office for Quantum team for the QT Hub annual review and a visit to QT Hub laboratories |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Welcomed the DSIT Office for Quantum team to join our annual review meeting, hosting them on the university campus and providing tours of the laboratories. This gave them the opportunity to meet a diverse range of researchers from the field, and to present an update on their vision and the National Quantum Strategy. This has helped inform DSIT and build networks of relevance to the QT Missions, with the QT Hub continuing to provide input on the missions. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Visit for senior stakeholders from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Senior stakeholders from DSIT visited the University of Birmingham, to discuss quantum sensing for underground imaging and upcoming priorities in data services, including the National Underground Asset Register. The visit included tours of the quantum technology laboratories and National Buried Infrastructure Facility. The visit inspired questions and discussion on our quantum sensing would add value to future data services, and on the associated requirements for integrating quantum sensor data and findings into such databases. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |