JSG 4.1.7: Evaluating the Potential of Next Generation Quantum Sensors for Positioning, Navigation, and Timing(PNT)(joint with QuGe and FIG)

Chair:  Allison Kealy (Australia)

Terms of Reference

PNT stands as an essential utility of modern society, spanning across sectors such as defense, disaster management, finance, telecommunications, agriculture, and energy. The precise determination of absolute location, a cornerstone of PNT, traditionallyrelies on GNSS and their timing signals. However, a paradigm shift is under-way, powered by compact quantum sensors. Leveraging the principles of quantumphysics, these sensors encompass a wide range of functionalities, including ultra-precise atomic clocks, accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, and gravitometers. Their emergence heralds a transformative era in PNT, promising unparalleled precision and resilience, particularly in GNSS-denied environments. This imminent revolution necessitates a comprehensive exploration of quantum sensors’ capabilities and theirpotential impact on PNT.

Objectives
  • Quantum Sensor Assessment: Conduct a thorough evaluation of the performance, precision, and resilience of next-generation quantum sensors, dissecting their individual capabilities, limitations, and real-world applications.
  • Quantum  Sensors  in  GNSS-Challenged  Environments:  Investigate  the  suitability and robustness of quantum sensors for PNT applications in GNSS-deprived/compromised environments, addressing the challenges of signal degrada-tion and signal loss.
  • Interplay of Quantum Sensing Technologies: Explore the interplay and synergy among different quantum sensing technologies, such as atomic clocks, accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, and gravitometers, elucidating their combined potential for enhancing PNT.
  • Recent Advances in Quantum Sensing: Analyze recent advancements in quantumsensor development, providing insights into cutting-edge research, technological breakthroughs, and potential cross-disciplinary applications.
  • Anticipating Future Quantum Sensor Developments: Predict and anticipate future developments in quantum sensor technology, assessing their potential impact on PNT and emerging use cases, including quantum communication and quantum computing.
  • Integration Strategies: Develop strategies and recommendations for the seamless integration of next-generation quantum sensors into existing and evolving PNT infrastructures, considering compatibility, inter-operability, and standards.
  • Technical Report and Knowledge Dissemination: Summarize research findings, recommendations, and best practices in a comprehensive technical report, facilitating knowledge dissemination within the scientific and engineering communities.
  • Scientific Publications: Explore opportunities for scientific publications to shareresearch outcomes and insights with a broader scientific audience, contributing tothe advancement of quantum sensor technology and its applications.