ion

The ion tool is a quantum-based magnetometer that enables precise probing of geophysical fields, including magnetic and gravitational fields, with exceptional accuracy. This technology is particularly beneficial in GNSS-denied or contested environments, as it offers resilience against spoofing and interference. The ion tool utilizes nitrogen-vacancy (NV) color centers in diamond, allowing for room-temperature operation, vector magnetic field sensing, and a robust solid-state implementation. Recent flight trials conducted in Australia demonstrated its potential for navigation, revealing challenges in translating these sensors into practical applications while ensuring low size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements. The ongoing research aims to bridge the gap between theoretical quantum sensing and operational navigation systems, addressing the need for bias-free solutions and effective platform corrections.