NATO STO

Quantum sensing is an expanding research field that studies the use of quantum properties such as entanglement or squeezing, to enhance the sensitivity in the measurement of different physical quantities, achieving precision levels which are unattainable with classical devices. Among the different physical systems that can be employed as quantum sensors, a prominent role is played by electromagnetic fields. For example, optical fields are used in quantum-enhanced interferometers whose extraordinary sensitivity has enabled ground-breaking scientific discoveries such as the detection of gravitational waves. Quantum interferometric techniques are employed to detect tiny variations of atomic transition frequencies, such as those induced by magnetic field anomalies or gravitational gradients. This led to the development of highly sensitive quantum magnetometers and gravimeters. Moreover, quantum states of light, and sophisticated quantum-inspired optical measurements, can be used to implement more secure, noise-resilient and high-resolution imaging modalities. Finally, recent technological progress in the construction of super-conducting devices has enabled controlled generation of quantum states of microwave fields. This has paved the way to development of new quantum sensing protocols at radio frequencies including quantum radars. Quantum sensing techniques hold a lot of promise which has been demonstrated by way of proof-of-principle experiments. However, their transition to practical technologies is just starting. For this reason, STO has called into being the Collaborative Programme of Work SET-ET-133 on “Elaborating TAPs on Quantum Technology within STB topical CPOW”. This TAP has emerged from the meetings of SET ET 133.