Startup Atomionics opens new quantum sensing hub to advance ocean mapping

The company has developed a quantum gravimetry system to map the seabed and subsurface.

Singapore-based startup Atomionics has opened Asia's first integrated quantum sensing hub at Alexandra Technopark, bringing together the development, assembly, and testing of its quantum sensing technology under one roof.

The over 5,700 sq ft site includes laboratories for physics, mechanical assembly, and electronics, as well as artificial intelligence systems used to process gravity measurements into subsurface models.

The facility also includes a gallery showcasing the development of the company’s quantum sensors.

In its physics laboratory, visitors can observe demonstrations of GRAVIO’s measurement process, which uses laser-controlled atoms in free fall to measure changes in Earth’s gravitational field.

The opening of Atomionics' new headquarters coincides with the announcement of its development of a quantum gravimetry system for marine applications, aiming to measure underwater environments in three dimensions—through the water column, across the seabed, and into the geological layers below.

The project is supported by Enterprise Singapore and Cap Vista, the investment arm and wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA).

Quantum gravimetry uses measurements of variations in Earth’s gravitational field to detect differences in mass.

Atomionics’ GRAVIO system is designed to use these measurements to create three-dimensional models of underwater environments, including features beneath the seabed and objects located within or on it.

Singapore is amongst the countries exploring the use of quantum sensing outside laboratory settings.

Cap Vista’s investment in Atomionics forms part of its efforts to support deep-tech companies developing technologies with possible defence and security applications.

Atomionics is also working with the Future Systems and Technology Directorate (FSTD) of Singapore’s Ministry of Defence and Cap Vista on quantum technology development for dual-use applications.

The organisations are exploring potential applications of quantum gravimetry in marine environments.

GRAVIO is currently used commercially in markets including Asia, Australia, Europe, and the US.

The system has previously been deployed in mining environments, where it was used to create underground models in areas affected by blasting, heavy machinery, and industrial vibration.

According to Atomionics, the resulting models corresponded with drill-hole data with over 95% accuracy without requiring additional drilling.

Atomionics said its longer-term objective is to develop continuously updated three-dimensional maps of the Earth’s subsurface, covering both land and ocean environments.