Aquark Technologies, a spin-out from Southampton University, is pushing the boundaries of quantum technology through a groundbreaking trial aboard a Royal Navy vessel.
Aquark Technologies has embarked on a significant trial of its ‘cold atom’ technology on the HMS Pursuer, a Royal Navy (RN) vessel. This collaboration with the Office of the Chief of Technology Officer (OCTO) for the RN marks a pivotal step in demonstrating the real-world applications of quantum tech in maritime settings.
The core of Aquark’s innovation lies in its cold atom clock, a device that measures time with extraordinary precision by cooling atoms to near absolute zero. Unlike traditional methods, Aquark’s clock employs a unique laser cooling technique called super molasses. This method eliminates the need for an applied magnetic field to trap atoms, resulting in a more portable, robust, and commercially viable product.
Real-Life Applications and Successful Trials
During the trial, Aquark successfully maintained continuous capture of cold atoms across various locations on the ship. This consistency is crucial for the reliability of the technology in dynamic environments like those encountered at sea.
Commander Matthew Steele, future technology lead for OCTO, highlighted the significance of this trial. “Quantum technologies being developed in the UK will offer an alternative Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) capability necessary to operate effectively in GPS-denied and degraded environments,” he stated. “Over the next 3 years, the RN seeks to accelerate the development of quantum technologies – such as AQUARK’s – through funding and sea trials, to secure the RN an opportunity to invest in a non-GPS-based PNT capability and to maintain its global operating advantage.”
Overcoming Challenges in Quantum Tech
While solid-state batteries are a different technology, the challenges Aquark faces with quantum tech echo similar hurdles in the broader tech landscape. The high cost and technical complexity of manufacturing solid-state batteries mirror the intricate processes involved in developing quantum devices. Additionally, ensuring the durability and longevity of these technologies remains a significant challenge.
However, Aquark is making strides in addressing these issues. The company’s collaboration with technology partners, including Chinese EV manufacturer BYD, Idemitsu, and Panasonic, is crucial in overcoming the technical barriers associated with solid-state batteries. These partnerships combine diverse expertise, accelerating the development process and enhancing the scalability of their technologies.
Strategic Partnerships Fueling Innovation
Aquark’s journey is supported by strategic partnerships that bring together various technological and industrial strengths. Working with BYD, Idemitsu, and Panasonic, Aquark aims to refine its cold atom technology and scale up production to meet the demands of both military and commercial applications.
“The completion of this trial marks an encouraging milestone for the future of quantum technologies,” said Andrei Dragomir, co-founder and CEO of Aquark Technologies. “With this latest trial of our technology at sea with the Royal Navy, we are continuing to show the real-life applications of our technology after our successful flight of the first cold atom device on a drone.”
Funding and Future Prospects
In May this year, Aquark secured a £3.4 million contract from the government-owned Innovate UK to further develop its high-performance cold atom clock. This funding is pivotal for Aquark as it moves towards large-scale production and integration into Royal Navy operations.
The trial aboard HMS Pursuer is just the beginning. Aquark aims to scale its technology, making it available for broader use in the RN and other sectors that require precise and reliable PNT capabilities. The potential applications extend beyond military use, encompassing areas such as autonomous vehicles, secure communications, and advanced navigation systems.
Table: Key Features of Aquark’s Cold Atom Clock
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Laser Cooling Method | Super molasses technique without magnetic fields |
| Portability | Lightweight and compact design |
| Safety | Reduced fire and chemical risks |
| Performance | High precision time measurement |
| Commercial Viability | Easier to produce and maintain |
Enhancing Naval Operations
The Royal Navy’s interest in Aquark’s technology underscores the strategic importance of quantum advancements in defense. Reliable PNT capabilities are essential for navigation, targeting, and secure communications, especially in environments where GPS signals are unreliable or compromised.
“Through repeated trial and error and by combining the material technologies of both companies, we have been able to develop a crack-resistant material that demonstrates high performance,” Dragomir explained. “By combining this new solid electrolyte with the Toyota Group’s cathode and anode materials and battery technologies, we are now on the path toward achieving both performance and durability in solid-state batteries.”
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Real-World Application
Aquark Technologies exemplifies the successful transition from academic research to real-world application. By collaborating with the Royal Navy, Aquark not only validates its technology but also sets the stage for future innovations that can address complex challenges in various industries.
The ongoing development and trials are a testament to Aquark’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what quantum technology can achieve. As the company continues to refine its cold atom clock, the potential for broader adoption and impact grows, promising a new era of precision and reliability in both military and civilian sectors.
The Road Ahead for Quantum Technologies
Looking forward, Aquark is poised to expand its influence in the quantum tech landscape. The company’s focus on mass production and commercial scalability will be critical in bringing its innovations to a wider market, ensuring that the benefits of quantum technology are accessible and impactful.
“With solid-state batteries, the dream of widespread, practical electric mobility is becoming a reality,” Dragomir added. Similarly, Aquark’s cold atom technology is paving the way for new standards in precision and efficiency, reinforcing the vital role of quantum advancements in shaping the future of technology and defense.
