The development and key technologies of quantum PNT

doi:10.11947/j.AGCS.2026.20251218

Abstract

Abstract:

Quantum positioning, navigation and timing (quantum PNT) technology is an interdisciplinary field integrating quantum physics, quantum sensing and self-perception navigation, and quantum timing. Quantum PNT sensors represent a crucial development direction for autonomous PNT terminals characterized by covert, continuous, and robust. The definition and the concept as well as the connotation of quantum PNT are given. The relationship with exist PNT systems, including satellite-based PNT, comprehensive PNT system, resilient PNT, and intelligent PNT etc. are discussed. The significance quantum PNT system is described. Also, the current development status and existing problems of quantum PNT are sorted out, and the research content and key technologies of quantum PNT are mainly analyzed. The quantum PNT development directions are divided into supply side and application side. Key development directions for the supply side are to tackle issues such as the quantum PNT integrated principle and uncertainty control. In the supply side, the integration of quantum sensors and comprehensive PNT terminals should be concentrated, especially the development of chip-based quantum PNT sensors and the miniaturization integration of multiple-principle PNT terminals. The manuscript aims to provide a new approach for secure PNT, trusted PNT, and autonomous PNT services.

Key words: quantum positioning, quantum inertial navigation, quantum gravity sensing, quantum magnetism sensing, quantum clock

CLC Number:

P228

Yuanxi YANG, Xia REN, Qiang ZHANG, Mingqiang HOU, Dingbang XIAO, Lingxiao ZHU. The development and key technologies of quantum PNT[J]. Acta Geodaetica et Cartographica Sinica, 2026, 55(1): 1-9.

Figures/Tables 2

References 49

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