Drones and Quantum Tech Entangle for Remote Sensing

Please don't ask us to explain quantum.

STARTER STATS

• The remote sensing industry is rapidly expanding, projected to grow from ~$19.8B in 2023 to ~$42.6B in 2030

• The quantum market is also growing, expected to expand from ~$1.4B in 2024 to over $20 billion by 2030

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Drones and quantum entanglement are now being used to develop a remote sensing system that’s more precise than traditional methods. A research team at the University of Waterloo is rethinking how we distribute and connect sensing instruments so they act as a single quantum-enhanced network rather than disconnected nodes.

The proof-of-concept project is linking two observation stations by sharing quantum information via drones. The drones will shuttle entangled particles between stations, allowing for coordinated measurements that boost precision.

If successful, the new system could transform how we monitor remote and challenging environments, from permafrost and polar weather systems to remote infrastructure and resources.

“We are developing the best entangled photon source in the world for this project; a quantum dot that can generate entangled photons deterministically. With a push of a button the photons are released with high efficiency, a feature that is not widely available from our competitors."

— Dr. Tarun Patel

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