As science and technology advance, developments that seemed impossible in the past are now becoming a reality. As a result, Network Rail is creating a quantum navigation technology for the UK railways, making it the first of its kind in the world.
What is quantum navigation technology?
Quantum inertial navigation technology detects “minute changes in motion and rotation” of trains without using Satellites or GPS, making it more accurate. Once fully operational, the technology uses highly sensitive sensors to determine a train’s location even when a satellite connection is unavailable, such as while crossing tunnels or in densely populated areas. Ultimately, it aims to lower the cost and to create a more reliable and resilient system.
A specialist consortium led by MoniRail is processing the programme, in association with Imperial College London, the University of Sussex, QinetiQ, PA Consulting and the National Physical Laboratory, with support from Innovate UK and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
Will the new technology replace fixed trackside positioning infrastructure?
Quantum navigation technology is a potential future alternative to fixed trackside positioning infrastructure, yet it will not completely replace it just yet. As the programme is still in its developmental phases, it will take some time before the full introduction into the UK railways.
World’s first quantum navigation technology testing in the world
The UK has been the first country in the world to start testing the quantum navigation technology on its main railway. The Rail Quantum Inertial Navigation System (RQINS) was officially tested on a Great Northern train operated by Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) between central London and Welwyn Garden City on Tuesday, March 3.
Providing real-world results, the pioneering system is a milestone in futuristic technologies being implemented into practical means.
So, here’s to hoping teleportation will one day become a viable mode of transport!
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.”
Toufic Machnouk, managing director of GBRX, said: “Developing new technologies within the complexity of a railway network is essential to understanding how frontier technologies can be translated into operational capability.
“Quantum sensing is one of the UK Government’s frontier technological priorities. Railways, as one of the country’s most complex operational systems, provide a powerful platform for developing and scaling these capabilities for rail and beyond.
“This programme begins the process of understanding how quantum positioning could fundamentally reshape how railways work. In the future, it could reduce reliance on costly trackside positioning systems while enabling new capabilities for signalling, improved operational performance, network planning, enhanced condition monitoring and more intelligent railway operations.
“This test represents an early but important step in that development journey and demonstrates how collaboration between government, academia and industry can accelerate the development of frontier technologies.”
