NASA unveils quantum gravity satellite to unlock secrets of Earth's gravitational field

NASA is developing a groundbreaking satellite to measure Earth's gravity using quantum technology, a project that could revolutionise human understanding of the planet's gravitational field.

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has confirmed that the satellite will use two clouds of rubidium atoms to measure gravity, Caliber.Az reports, citing the message posted on the Jet Propulsion Laboratory’s website. 

These atoms, when cooled to temperatures close to absolute zero, exhibit wave-like properties. The Quantum Gravity Gradiometer will detect differences in acceleration between these waves, enabling the identification of gravitational anomalies.

The satellite, named Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder (QGGPf), will weigh 125 kilograms and occupy a volume of 0.25 cubic meters. With its advanced sensitivity, the QGGPf is expected to significantly outperform traditional gravitational measurement devices. The satellite’s launch is scheduled for the end of the decade, promising new insights into Earth's gravitational field and potential applications in various scientific fields, from geophysics to space exploration.

In February, SpaceNews reported that NASA urged private companies to deliver the Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER) to the Moon. 

Later, the same website revealed that the American robotic spacecraft Europa Clipper had begun its journey to Europa, one of Jupiter’s icy moons.

By Naila Huseynova