Workshops on quantum sensing at the MPQ’s PhotonLab

At the PhotonLab of the Max Planck Institute for Quantum Optics in Garching, the QOOOL Sensing team ran workshops for school classes, thereby complementing the existing programme of the school science lab.

Following a brief introduction to classical and quantum sensor technology, the pupils worked in small groups at various experimental stations. They set up their own measuring stations using the senseBox, carried out experiments on colour changes in salts and fluorescence in diamonds, and learnt the basics of quantum sensor technology using nitrogen vacancy centres in diamonds. It became clear how quantum sensors can be used, for example, to measure the tiniest magnetic fields, and what role they could play in research and technology in the future.

Through independent experimentation and direct interaction with the project team, the participants gained practical insight into the latest developments in quantum technologies and were able to try out and explore many aspects for themselves.

This led to a number of fascinating discussions. The pupils, in particular, asked many insightful questions, for example about the special capabilities of quantum sensors, but also about how diamonds are produced artificially. We would like to thank everyone for the fascinating exchange!