Taking atom interferometric quantum sensors from the laboratory to real-world applications

Since the first proof-of-principle experiments over 25 years ago, atom interferometry has matured to a versatile tool that can be used in fundamental research in particle physics, general relativity and cosmology. At the same time, atom interferometers are currently moving out of the laboratory to be used as ultraprecise quantum sensors in metrology, geophysics, space, civil engineering, oil and minerals exploration, and navigation. This Perspective discusses the associated scientific and technological challenges and highlights recent advances. Quantum sensors based on atom interferometry are moving from fundamental research towards commercial applications in metrology, geophysics, space, civil engineering, oil and minerals exploration, and navigation, but a number of challenges need to be overcome.