Quantum navigation technology tested on UK rail

Quantum navigation technology is now being tested in the UK. The quantum inertial navigation system is in development. It is designed to measure train position with very high accuracy. It uses ultra-sensitive sensors. These can detect very small changes in motion and rotation.

How quantum navigation technology is being developed?

The system does not depend on external signals. It is intended to provide resilient train positioning. That applies where satellite signals are unavailable. For example, that includes tunnels, dense infrastructure and areas affected by interference. It is being developed as a potential future alternative to fixed trackside positioning infrastructure. Also, the expectation is for a lower-cost system. At the same time, it is expected to be more reliable and resilient.

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First RQINS test on a mainline railway

As Network Rail notes, RQINS has now been tested on a mainline railway. RQINS is the Rail Quantum Inertial Navigation System. Also, it was the first such test anywhere in the world. The system was carried on a Great Northern train. The train was operated by Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR). Meanwhile, the test ran between central London and Welwyn Garden City on Tuesday 3 March. In addition, it provided real-world data. This was meant to help illustrate performance within the operational environment of a national railway network.

Consortium behind the UK rail trial

The work builds on earlier activity by the Ministry of Defence. It also builds on Transport for London’s network. It marks the next step in the development of quantum sensing technologies for heavy rail. Separately, the specialist consortium is led by MoniRail. It includes:

• Imperial College London
• the University of Sussex
• QinetiQ
• PA Consulting
• the National Physical Laboratory

Still, support comes from Innovate UK and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). GBRX convenes the work. It is the strategic innovation and technology body for Great British Railways.

Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said:

For more than two centuries Britain’s railway has forged technologies that have shaped the modern world. The development of quantum inertial navigation continues that legacy. With these new capabilities, we’re preventing equipment failures, helping to boost our railway’s reliability and keeping passengers moving.

It’s all part of our plan to modernise track and train under Great British Railways, adopting world-leading technology that increases resilience to improve passenger experience while supporting jobs, growth and homes.

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