SMRTR Science & EngineeringJul 14, 2026Interesting Engineering

World’s first airworthy quantum navigation backup keeps aircraft on course without GPS

SMRTR summary

Australian firm Q-CTRL has developed Ironstone Opal, the world's first airworthy quantum navigation system that works as a GPS backup for aircraft. Using quantum sensors and magnetic mapping instead of satellites, it maintains accuracy within 0.3 nautical miles, meeting commercial aviation standards, critical as GPS disruptions cost the UK an estimated £1 billion daily.

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