Benefit of Quantum Technology for Geodesy

Current developments in quantum physics and the application of general relativity open up advanced prospects for satellite geodesy, gravimetric Earth observation and reference systems and thus strongly help to meeting the geodesy challenges in a unique way. As Vening-Meinsz advanced gravimetry 100 years ago with his pendulum apparatus, quantum optics can push it further using atoms today. These novel concepts include the application of atom interferometry for realizing quantum gravimetry and gradiometry, the enhanced use of laser interferometry for inter-satellite tracking and accelerometry at future gravity field missions, and relativistic geodesy with clocks for the determination of gravity potential differences via gravitational redshift measurements.

We briefly illustrate those novel techniques and present in which fields geodesy and geosciences will benefit from them. We show various application areas ranging from the direct determination of physical heights and the monitoring of mass variations using clock networks up to the use of quantum technology for gravimetric Earth observation on ground and in space. Realizing these innovative methods is key to quantify climate change processes (groundwater changes, ice mass loss, seal level rise, etc.) with largely increased precision and resolution.

Finally, we would like to mention the IAG project “Novel Sensors and Quantum Technology for Geodesy (QuGe)” that advances those activities in close collaboration between geodesy and physics, see https://quge.iag-aig.org/  -  see also: Van Camp, M., Pereira dos Santos, F., Murböck, M., Petit, G., Müller, J. (2021): Lasers and Ultracold Atoms for a Changing Earth. EOS, 102, https://doi.org/10.1029/2021EO210673

Acknowledgment: This study has been funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) under Germany's Excellence Strategy EXC 2123 Quantum Frontiers - Project-ID 90837967 and the SFB 1464 TerraQ - Project-ID 434617780.