Field demonstration planned for 2027 aims to use quantum gravity gradiometry to deliver better discovery and mapping of critical mineral deposits underground before costly drilling begins.
Infleqtion, a global leader in quantum computing and quantum sensing powered by neutral-atom technology, has announced plans to conduct a field test of its quantum gravity gradiometry (QGG) technology in Colorado in 2027.
The test is expected to demonstrate a new approach to understanding what lies beneath the surface and help strengthen America’s critical-minerals supply chain.
Critical minerals are essential to US defense systems, advanced manufacturing, energy infrastructure and emerging technologies, yet discovering and developing domestic resources remains costly, time-intensive and uncertain.
“America cannot secure the supply chains it cannot see,” said Matt Kinsella, CEO, Infleqtion. “The first step toward mineral independence is knowing what you actually have. In Colorado, we plan to demonstrate how quantum sensing can provide better subsurface intelligence earlier in the exploration process – helping identify promising geological structures and prioritize where further exploration and drilling should occur.”
The planned field test builds on Infleqtion’s support for the Quantum-Enhanced Critical Minerals Mapping Act of 2026 (H.R. 9646) – legislation that would direct the US Geological Survey to incorporate quantum gravity gradiometry into its Earth Mapping Resources Initiative. Kinsella testified before the House Committee on Natural Resources in July in support of the legislation.
The federal government is placing greater emphasis on critical-minerals independence, supported by recent administration actions to call for accelerating federal planning for the use of quantum sensing technologies.
“America should not have to rely on foreign countries for the critical minerals we need for our economy and national security,” said Congressman Jeff Hurd. “That is why I introduced the Quantum-Enhanced Critical Minerals Mapping Act, to put cutting-edge American technology to work helping us better understand the resources we have here at home. I am glad to see Infleqtion testing this technology in Colorado and especially pleased that they are looking at potential sites in the Third District. Colorado has long been a leader in both natural resources and innovation and this is a great example of bringing the two together.”
QGG technology measures extremely small variations in Earth’s gravitational field. Those measurements can reveal differences in underground density and geological structure that may otherwise be difficult to characterize from the surface.
Used alongside existing geological and geophysical methods, QGG has the potential to help exploration teams narrow search areas and make more informed decisions before undertaking costly and invasive drilling.
Infleqtion’s quantum sensing technologies are currently being advanced through programs with the US Department of War, NASA and the UK Royal Navy.
Infleqtion is evaluating several potential field-test locations within Colorado’s Third Congressional District, represented by Rep. Jeff Hurd. Additional details on the Colorado field test, including final site selection and timing, are expected to be announced as the program progresses.
