Russia’s Quantum Sensors Could Revolutionize Oil Exploration
New quantum devices promise to detect underground resources with unprecedented accuracy—while being smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient than current technology.
The accuracy of detecting underground oil reserves in Russia could increase tenfold thanks to the development of new quantum sensors, according to Professor Sergey Kulik, scientific director of the Quantum Technology Center at Moscow State University. Kulik presented the breakthrough during the Science 0+ festival.
A national “Quantum Sensors” roadmap is now being developed to guide the creation of these advanced instruments. Their ultra-high sensitivity will allow scientists to detect minute anomalies in Earth’s gravitational field—signatures that often point to hidden mineral and oil deposits.
Quantum sensors operate based on the principles of quantum mechanics and can capture subtle shifts in physical parameters that traditional instruments miss. These include variations in gravity, magnetic fields, time, and temperature.
Researchers in Russia are also working on atomic clocks and gravimeters for mobile platforms, which could significantly improve navigation accuracy. Another quantum sensor based on cold atoms is being designed to study how friction in the upper atmosphere affects the trajectories of orbiting satellites.
