Transportable quantum gravimeter (A01)

• Subject Area: Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas ; Geodesy, Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing, Geoinformatics, Cartography
• Term: from 2014 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 239994235

The first demonstration of an atom-chip gravimeter by geo-Q heralds a paradigm shift in measuring gravity. Evaluations of the leading uncertainties of today’s interferometers operated with laser-cooled atoms predict a strong gain in accuracy by employing Bose-Einstein’s condensates. Uncertainties may fall below 3x10-9 m/s², one order of magnitude better than state-of-the-art. We will verify these models with our Quantum Gravimeter QG-1. Additionally QG-1 will demonstrate its transportability and its capabilities in environments relevant for geodesy within several anticipated measurement campaigns.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1128: Relativistic Geodesy and Gravimetry with Quantum Sensors - Modelling, Geo-Metrology and Future Technology (geo-Q)
• Applicant Institution: Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität Hannover
• Project Heads: Dr. Waldemar Herr; Professor Dr.-Ing. Jürgen Müller; Professor Dr. Ernst Maria Rasel