Chinese researchers unveiled a gravity detector using a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) last month, achieving world-leading precision in a compact design usable outside labs. According to a Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) report, it measures tiny gravity shifts to detect objects. The technology brings China closer to spotting patrolling nuclear submarines.
Chinese researchers have developed a gravity detector that uses a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) to spot objects by measuring tiny changes in gravity. According to a report on the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) website, the instrument reduces gravity gradient measurement noise—such as vibrations from seismic activity—to a level second only to kilometre-scale gravitational wave detectors.
The device is about the size of an office cubicle, unlike the United States’ Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), which employs mirrors spaced 4km (2.5 miles) apart to study the cosmos.
The team states it can be used for scientific research and finding underground resources. It also advances China’s ability to detect patrolling nuclear submarines, such as US Ohio-class vessels. Existing methods like sonar, magnetic anomaly detection, and radar can be evaded, but gravity cannot be masked.
The CAS report highlights the instrument’s world-leading precision in noise reduction, potentially expanding military applications of the technology.
