Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) Federal Subsidiary, QI Solutions, has made a significant breakthrough in detecting landmines and unexploded ordnances (UXOs) below the surface. Through their field validation of the Quantum Photonic Detection and Ranging Variant 3 (VX3) sensor, QI Solutions has demonstrated the unprecedented capability to detect landmines up to 2.5 feet below dense underground surfaces.
The VX3 sensor utilizes Quantum Single Photon Detection (QSPD) to harness the power of quantum computing in landmine detection. By emitting high-speed, low-power optical pulses at an eye-safe wavelength, the VX3 sensor illuminates the target and measures the few returning photons using a single quantum mode. This approach reduces ambient noise and provides robust operation in complex environments, making it effective even in daytime conditions. Additionally, the VX3 sensor can detect mechanical and chemical states of targets at a distance, such as vibration on a nanometer scale.
With its non-interferometry and all-fiber design, the VX3 sensor offers practical advantages in terms of size, weight, power, and cost compared to conventional laser vibrometers. It also excels in working distance and penetration depth, making it an ideal solution for detecting landmines and UXOs in various environments.
Landmines are a serious threat worldwide, causing deaths and injuries to innocent civilians, particularly in countries affected by past conflicts. According to the United Nations, approximately 110 million landmines are scattered across approximately 70 countries and territories. These mines can remain dormant for years, posing a continuous risk to communities. Clearing existing minefields is a challenging and costly task, often relying on dangerous manual efforts.
QI Solutions’ breakthrough in landmine detection offers a promising solution to this global problem. By leveraging quantum sensing technology, their VX3 sensor can accurately detect landmines buried up to 2.5 feet below the ground, potentially saving countless lives and enabling communities to reclaim previously unusable land.
FAQ
1. How deep can the VX3 sensor detect landmines?
The VX3 sensor has demonstrated the capability to detect landmines up to 2.5 feet below dense underground surfaces.
2. What is Quantum Single Photon Detection (QSPD)?
QSPD is a technology that harnesses quantum computing to detect extremely weak signals using single photon counting. It provides highly sensitive measurement of mechanical and chemical states of targets, such as vibrations on a nanometer scale.
3. How can landmines affect communities?
Landmines pose a significant threat, causing deaths and injuries to civilians, including children. They render land unusable, impacting agriculture and economic development in affected areas.
4. How long will it take to clear all the world’s current active landmines?
It is estimated that it will take approximately 1,100 years to clear all the world’s current active landmines.
Sources:
– [Quantum Computing Inc.](https://www.quantumcomputinginc.com)
– [United Nations News](https://www.un.org/en)