A grapefruit-sized quantum device mapped Earth’s magnetic field from space
SMRTR summary
A grapefruit-sized quantum device called OSCAR-QUBE successfully mapped Earth's magnetic field from the International Space Station using a lentil-sized diamond with atomic defects that detect magnetic changes through laser light. Over 10 months in 2021–2022, it matched previous magnetic field estimates while being far smaller than traditional satellites. Future upgrades could make quantum magnetometers a powerful tool for navigation, climate research, and studying Earth's interior.
SMRTR provides this summary for quick context. The original article belongs to Science News.
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