Q-CTRL builds several complementary technologies based on trapped atoms. These atoms respond to external magnetic and gravitational fields as well as accelerations, and these tiny responses can be measured with laser beams. Because the response comes from the properties of the atoms, the hardware doesn't require any calibration and is very stable over long periods. With those measured signals, a navigation computer can either compare readings to a local map (map matching) or calculate position and velocity from measured accelerations (inertial navigation).

The quantum navigation systems built by Q-CTRL cannot be jammed or spoofed by an adversary. They function in any weather or visibility conditions and are completely passive, ensuring stealthy operations. Overall quantum navigation provides a robust backup when GPS is untrusted or unavailable, and is a complement to other navigation solutions.

Q-CTRL is currently engaging select partners for additional field trails and system-integration demonstrations. Please contact the Q-CTRL team for further details.

Q-CTRL is the first and only company in the world to deliver field validation of quantum sensing technology for navigation. This includes real field trials on airborne, ground-based, and maritime platforms. Contact the Q-CTRL team for further details.

Q-CTRL produces infrastructure software for quantum computing and full-stack quantum-assured navigation systems including its own quantum sensing hardware. Q-CTRL does not sell sensor components, but the Ironstone Opal quantum-assured navigation system is now available for presale. Contact the Q-CTRL team for further details.

Q-CTRL has demonstrated that quantum computing can deliver on defense use cases like contested Army logistics, and optimized manufacturing supply chains for defense technology. A wide variety of other applications in materials science, chemistry, and machine learning are being explored and can be enabled by Q-CTRL’s performance management infrastructure software, Fire Opal.

Quantum sensors operate differently from conventional sensors, making them:

• More reliable
• Less vulnerable to signal jamming
• Less affected by electromagnetic interference

This gives quantum sensors an advantage over current sound and light based sensors, which are increasingly susceptible to interference issues.

Our team has extensive experience incorporating quantum sensors into new and existing platforms. Get in touch to discuss how this capability fits into your development plans.

Quantum sensors are used for precise detection of geophysical and vehicle signals needed to navigate without any connection to GPS. Current and future applications include aerospace, maritime and autonomous vehicles such as uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) and autonomous underwater vehicles. Q-CTRL’s activities incorporate quantum inertial sensing, magnetometry, and gravimetry.

Quantum sensing leverages quantum mechanics to achieve unprecedented precision and sensitivity in measuring physical quantities like magnetic fields or acceleration. Unlike classical sensing techniques, quantum sensing exploits the unique properties of atoms to provide enhanced performance in a wide variety of sensing applications.