A quantum magnetometer based on hydrogen nuclei works like noise-canceling headphones. It alternately "listens" to the field in two different ways: the noise is the same for both, but the desired signal is different. By subtracting one from the other, the device extracts the signal, reducing interference by more than 1000 times.
The key secret is intentional vibration. Constant "shaking" drives the atoms into a state insensitive to external influences. This effect, predicted by quantum physics, is applied in sensors for the first time. This technique is also used by gravitational-wave observatories: they subtract common noise to detect signals from space.
The sensor withstands temperature swings and strong shaking — it worked while trembling as if sitting on a running engine. This paves the way for quantum devices outside the lab: aerial ore prospecting, precision navigation, medical diagnostics on the move.
The sensor worked across a 150°C temperature swing — like from an Antarctic winter to a Saharan summer.
The tricorder from 'Star Trek' could scan in any condition — the new magnetometer brings science fiction closer to reality.