The quantum sensing revolution

In this bonus episode of Eavesdrop on Experts, our reporter Dr Andi Horvath ventures into the misunderstood world of quantum physics and, specifically, quantum sensing. While the discussion about "spooky" quantum phenomena like Schrödinger's famous cat is about a hundred years old, there's a revolution coming in quantum sensing. Quantum sensors exploit of the quantum mechanical behaviour of atoms or ions to measure physical quantities such as frequency, acceleration, rotation rates, electric and magnetic fields, or temperature with the absolute accuracy. The sensors use properties (like entanglement) to achieve measurements beyond the reach of traditional systems, and are currently are used in devices like atomic clocks and magnetometers. And while sensors like this have been around for at least a decade, the new generation of quantum sensors are making major advances with real-world impact. Episode recorded: March 27, 2018. Interviewer: Dr Andi Horvath. Audio engineering: Arch Cuthbertson. Production: Chris Hatzis, Dr Andi Horvath and Silvi Vann-Wall. Editor: Chris Hatzis. Banner image: Paul Burston/University of Melbourne.