Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG)

Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG) Latest News

NASA scientists have proposed an innovative use of cold atom-based quantum gravity gradiometers (QGGs) to measure how the Earth’s mass distribution is changing, especially due to climate change.

About Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG)

• Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG): NASA scientists propose placing a Quantum Gravity Gradiometer onboard a satellite to detect minute gravitational changes.
  • In a QGG, atoms of a specific element are cooled to near absolute zero in a vacuum, transforming them into wave-like states.
  • Lasers manipulate these atoms, and the atoms undergo a phase shift directly related to the gravitational force acting upon them.
  • This setup can detect differences in acceleration as small as 10⁻¹⁵ m/s² over a distance of just 1 meter.
• This includes estimating the mass of large formations like the Himalayas and monitoring the movement of water, ice, and geological materials with extreme precision from low Earth orbit.
• Gravitational force varies with mass distribution: The gravitational force experienced at different points on the Earth’s surface is not uniform; it depends on the mass of nearby objects.
  • For instance, gravitational force near a mountain range is stronger than in less dense regions, like cities or flat plains.
• Gravity Gradiometer: It is a highly sensitive instrument that measures how gravitational acceleration changes from one place to another.
  • For example, when a ball is dropped, the acceleration due to gravity can vary slightly depending on local mass differences.
  • These devices are used in resource exploration—like locating hydrocarbon deposits, as oil and gas are less dense than surrounding rock.

Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG) FAQs

Q1. What is a Quantum Gravity Gradiometer?
Ans. A Quantum Gravity Gradiometer is a highly sensitive instrument that measures tiny variations in Earth's gravitational field using quantum principles such as atom interferometry.

Q2. What is the significance of using quantum technology in gravity mapping?
Ans. Quantum-based gravity sensors can detect underground structures like cavities, tunnels, or mineral deposits with greater precision than conventional gravimeters, making them useful in geology, archaeology, and defence.

Q3. How does a Quantum Gravity Gradiometer work?
Ans. It works by tracking the motion of ultracold atoms in free-fall, which behave as quantum wavefunctions, and detecting phase shifts caused by gravity variations.

Source: SP