When gravity is stronger, the objectsa.k.a.
Earths gravity isnt constantit changes subtly all the time as mass shifts around the planet.
On our physical scale, those shifts are imperceptiblebut not to scientists ultra-sensitive instruments.
A map of Earth’s gravity (red indicates more gravitational pull).Image: NASA
With the right sensors, scientists can use gravity to see whats hidden under Earths surface.
The sharper the gravity map, the better we understand whats going on underground.
The faster fall indicates stronger gravity in that location.
The difference in acceleration between the two clouds tells scientists where gravitational anomalies lie.
Unlike older gravity gradiometers, QGGPf uses quantum physics to ensure repeatability and precision.
With atoms, I can guarantee that every measurement will be the same, said physicist Sheng-wey Chiow.
Were less sensitive to environmental noise.
Quantum gravity gradiometers could be 10 times more sensitive than classical gravity sensors, according to the NASA release.
No one has flown one of these before, said JPL postdoc Ben Stray, in the same release.
We have to test it in space to know what its really capable of.
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