Aquark Technologies: Simplifying Quantum Technology with Cold-Atom Trapping
In their mission to make quantum technology simpler and more accessible, Aquark Technologies is developing and testing new cold-atom trapping systems. Andrei Dragomir, CEO and Co-founder of Aquark, discusses the benefits of cold-atom trapping, how this technology is being utilized and adapted by Aquark, and the potential impact it could have on the future of commercial technology.
Understanding Cold-Atom Trapping
Cold-atom trapping involves using magnetic and optical fields to confine a cloud of atoms in a vacuum chamber, effectively forcing the atoms to stay still and reach near absolute zero temperatures. This technology, invented in 1985, allows for precise control and interrogation of atoms, which are extremely sensitive to environmental parameters. Cold-atom trapping has the potential to revolutionize various fields, including position navigation and timing, next-generation computing, and civil engineering applications.
Cold-Atom Trapping in Quantum Technology
Cold matter is a universal platform for quantum technology, offering applications in computing, communications, sensing, and imaging. Unlike other platforms, cold atoms can be used to develop devices that cover almost all areas of quantum technology. For example, cold atoms can be used in gravity and rotation sensors, quantum memories, and qubits for computing. Cold-atom trapping represents a platform technology that is well-defined in laboratory environments and is already defining our lives, as seen in the precision atomic clocks used in GPS systems.
Aquark’s Approach to Cold-Atom Trapping
Aquark is focused on improving the size, weight, power, and cost of cold-atom trapping systems to accelerate the development and adoption of products in this field. Traditionally, these systems are complex, large, and expensive, requiring extensive training to operate. Aquark aims to simplify and commercialize this technology by removing the magnetic field requirements, which significantly reduces the core system size. Through innovative vacuum and laser stabilisation technologies, Aquark has made this technology viable for real-world applications.
Aquark’s Vision for the Future
Aquark’s vision is to bring quantum technology to the world by removing the complex connotations associated with the term “quantum.” They believe that people should focus on the benefits this technology can unlock rather than its scientific complexities. Aquark aims to push the miniaturization of cold-atom trapping technology and considers themselves a company with a horizontal approach, collaborating with partners to explore different applications in various verticals.
Partnerships and Trials in Defense and National Security
Aquark has partnered with Defense and Innovate UK to develop and conduct field trials of their cold-atom trapping system. This support has been invaluable in navigating the complexities and expenses associated with deep tech. Defense companies are likely to be early adopters of this technology due to its relevance to defense and national security. Applications such as high-precision atomic clocks and gravimeters have significant implications in areas like border control and inertial navigation systems, making defense companies ideal partners for testing and refining the system.
The Unique Approach of Aquark Technologies
Aquark has developed a unique method for trapping and cooling atoms without using magnetic fields, contributing to the practicality and accessibility of cold-atom systems. By utilizing a Supermolasses trap, Aquark eliminates the need for a quadrupole magnetic field and reduces the complexity of the system. This approach allows for robust and resilient systems that can be integrated into different applications more easily. Additionally, this unique method enables multiplexing, where multiple atom clouds can be generated in a single vacuum chamber, offering further possibilities for improving and combining different sensors.
Please note, this article will also appear in the seventeenth edition of our quarterly publication.
Analyst comment
Positive news: Aquark Technologies is developing and testing new cold-atom trapping systems, which have the potential to revolutionize various fields including computing and civil engineering. Aquark aims to simplify this technology and make it more accessible by removing magnetic field requirements. They have formed partnerships with Defense and Innovate UK for field trials. The unique method developed by Aquark eliminates the need for a magnetic field, reducing complexity and allowing for integration into different applications more easily. Analyst: The market for cold-atom trapping systems is likely to grow as Aquark’s innovations make the technology more practical and accessible, attracting interest from industries such as defense and national security.
