Quantum Sensing

Quantum Sensing harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics to detect and measure various physical quantities such as magnetic fields, gravitational fields, time, temperature, and other properties at extremely fine scales. BasQ researchers are currently developing quantum sensors with potential applications in a wide range of fields.

The Basque Quantum Sensing research ecosystem is making progress in the development of high-precision sensors with applications in metrology, health, industry and energy. Through quantum interferometry and the use of entangled states, sensors are being developed for the detection of magnetic and gravitational fields, with applications in geophysics, resource exploration and advanced navigation. In addition, quantum metrology is driving the development of ultra-precise atomic clocks that improve synchronisation in telecommunications, GPS and financial systems.

In the biomedical field, the Basque Country is researching quantum sensors based on NV defects in diamonds to detect biomarkers and improve medical imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging and tomography. Quantum sensors are also being explored for industrial quality control, the monitoring of electricity grids and the detection of environmental pollutants.