Canadian firm SBQuantum is launching a quantum sensor into space to test its data generation capabilities that could one day replace ageing GPS satellites.
SBQuantum, a Canadian company, is set to launch a quantum diamond magnetometer to space as part of the MagQuest challenge that seeks to accelerate newer technologies for measuring the Earth’s magnetic field.
The launch is scheduled for Sunday, March 29th, 2026, on board Transporter 16, a rideshare program from SpaceX. The World Magnetic Model is a large-scale spatial representation of the Earth’s magnetic field. Developed by the US National Geophysical Data Center and the British Geological Survey, the WMM must be periodically updated because the Earth’s magnetic field is shifting. The WMM is used by the US Department of Defense , the UK’s Ministry of Defence for mission-critical operations, as well as the Federal Aviation Administration for routing flights. Over the years, smartphone navigation has also relied on the WMM, but the satellites that collect this data are now aging. To overcome this, the US National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency hosted the MagQuest Challenge to replace aging satellites with newer technologies. Quantum sensorSBQuantum, based in Sherbrooke, Canada, a finalist in the MagQuest challenge, produces leading-edge quantum sensors and advanced interpretation and compensation algorithms. Its diamond quantum magnetometer is a significant leap beyond conventional magnetic field-measuring infrastructure. While current techniques use large, expensive devices to provide periodic updates of the Earth’s magnetic field, SBQuantum’s magnetometer is about the size of a quart of milk and provides continuous, high-quality monitoring data with exceptional precision. Ahead of its launch, the magnetometer was tested at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and has significant implications for the future of navigation. “Our technology has now been validated for the most demanding conditions imaginable, and we are proud to bring to market a device which could soon play a central role in how the world navigates on land, air, and sea,” said David Roy-Guay, Founder of SBQuantum, in a press release shared with Interesting Engineering.Beyond the WMMUnlike GPS, magnetic navigation provides reliable readings even when satellite signals are denied, degraded, or contested. In an era of increasing electronic warfare, defense sectors are seeking a resilient alternative to GPS. “Applications for this sensor go far beyond the WMM itself, from defense and navigation to resource exploration and public safety. We believe quantum sensing is the next frontier, and we are at the forefront of delivering on its potential,” added Roy-Guay in the press release. “Reaching the final phase of MagQuest is the most significant technical milestone in our company’s history.”Launched in 2019, the MagQuest Challenge is an open competition with a $2.1 million prize pool spread across three phases. After seven years, three teams entered the competition’s fourth phase. SBQuantum partnered with Spire Global, which hosts satellite infrastructure, ground stations, and data processing capabilities to provide space-based data and analytics. The final phase of the MagQuest challenge is expected to conclude in the fall this year, with results informing NGA on a new strategy for WMM data collection.Beyond the challenge, SBQuantum is also working with the Canadian Department of National Defence, the European Space Agency, and other companies to bring its miniaturized sensors to unmanned vehicles and other applications not covered by conventional sensing.
Inventions And Machines Quantum Sensing Sbquantum Spacex UK World Magnetic Model
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
'No good choice' for GPs as child mental health demand 'skyrockets'GP says long waits for support mean some doctors feel forced to prescribe medication outside of guidelines.
Read more »
Behind-the-scenes secrets of NASA mission controlIn high-stakes roles, NASA launch and mission control teams on the ground will keep the Artemis II astronauts safely on track during a 10-day journey around the moon.
Read more »
NASA Sets Coverage for First Artemis Crewed Mission Around MoonA variety of prelaunch, launch, and mission events for NASA’s Artemis II mission around the Moon will stream online. The agency is targeting no earlier than
Read more »
Explore New Cities on the Run: How to Use GPS Watches for AdventureDiscover how GPS running watches can transform your travel runs, offering turn-by-turn navigation and exploration of new cities. Learn how to set up routes, choose the right watch, and embrace the adventure of running in unfamiliar places.
Read more »
GPS darts to track fleeing cars approved for SFPDIt's a high-tech alternative to police chases. A GPS dart fired from a cop cruiser latches onto the getaway car. Officers can then pull back and track the suspects remotely without risking a pursuit that could lead to crashes, injuries or deaths.
Read more »