Navigation simulations show where quantum sensors could offer an advantage

An ESA-funded simulation study found that quantum sensors provided the strongest navigation benefit when movement was less dynamic and conventional inertial sensors were high quality. ESA published the findings on 12 November after GMV NSL and the University of Birmingham presented their work the previous day.

The team combined cold-atom interferometer measurements with conventional inertial units to estimate and correct sensor bias. It compared the hybrid method with established navigation approaches in rail, aircraft and maritime simulations, including interruptions to satellite navigation signals.

With more dynamic movement and lower-grade inertial equipment, bias estimation based on satellite navigation generally performed better. The findings depend on the team’s modelling choices and the simulated sensor characteristics. ESA’s NAVISP programme fully funded the work.