QOOOL Sensing at IdeenExpo 2026: Hands-on quantum sensor technology
The IdeenExpo is one of Europe’s largest events designed to inspire young people to take an interest in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology. Since 2007, it has been bringing together companies, universities, research institutions and schools to enable school pupils and the general public to experience modern technologies through interactive exhibits and workshops.
The QOOOL Sensing project was also represented at the IdeenExpo 2026 in Hanover. At the joint stand of the ‘quantum aktiv’ initiative, the project partners Hahn-Schickard, the University of Stuttgart and re:edu ran joint workshops and showcased interactive demonstrators that gave visitors a hands-on insight into the world of modern sensor technology and quantum technologies.
The workshops focused on how sensors work and why quantum sensors open up entirely new possibilities. Participants were first able to familiarise themselves with and try out their own sensor applications using the senseBox. We then delved step by step into the world of quantum sensor technology: interactive experiments demonstrated the role played by fluorescence and how nitrogen vacancies (NV centres) in diamonds can be used to measure magnetic fields with high precision. Along the way, salts were coloured using a Tesla coil, the sounds of which kept everyone’s attention throughout.
In addition to the workshops, QOOOL Sensing showcased various demonstrators illustrating current applications of NV magnetometry. Among other things, visitors were able to see how extremely weak magnetic fields can be measured and what opportunities quantum sensors open up, for example in medical technology.
The numerous discussions demonstrated the young people’s keen interest. Despite the high temperatures outside and the ‘heat-related school closure’ announced during the event, many school classes took the opportunity to take part in the workshops and carry out experiments themselves. The IdeenExpo thus once again provided an ideal setting for communicating the latest research in an accessible and interactive way.
The QOOOL Sensing team would like to thank all visitors and project partners for the successful collaboration and looks forward to future joint events.