HE project EQUIP-G, led by CNRS, France, and associating 20 entities across 11 countries, is launching an Open Call for proposals to the European scientific and engineering communities. Open until July 31 st , 2026 (6:00 PM CET), this call allows any European public entity for requesting access to a quantum gravimeter to conduct field measurements, in particular for applications in geosciences and geodesy. A world first.
Gravity measurements are a unique tool for subsurface imaging, as they provide direct information on surrounding mass variations. They also play a crucial role in establishing terrestrial spatial references. Gravimetry allows for the mapping and monitoring of subsurface dynamics, and its applications are numerous: geothermal energy, monitoring of the climate change, groundwater and volcanoes, subsurface gas storage, and more. After decades of research, development, and industrial transfer, quantum technologies have reached a level of maturity that makes it possible to benefit from robust and operational quantum gravimeters in the field, offering several advantages over the devices used until now.
"This Open Call is one of the major actions of the EQUIP-G initiative. Drawing on the experience of our consortium members, we provide training and technical support for future applicants and aim to expand the range of use cases. We are living in a very exciting period as the use of quantum gravimeters becomes increasingly widespread"
Sébastien Merlet, PI of the project
How does a quantum gravimeter work?
A quantum gravimeter is a sensor that replicates Newton's apple experiment. Several times per second, atoms are trapped and cooled by laser beams to form a sample of matter. This test mass is then released and free falls in a vacuum. The vertical
acceleration, g, experienced by the atoms is measured by atomic interferometry. This technique allows for precise, continuous measurements at a rate of typically 2 Hz, by manipulating matter-wave packets with laser pulses.
Why apply?
• accessing cutting-edge technology without any significant investment,
• benefitting from support and training from consortium experts,
• exploring new use cases and new measurement techniques in your field of research.
How to apply?
Interested teams – including those without prior experience in gravimetry – are invited to submit their applications before July 31 st , 2026 by email at ipe@equip-g.eu The Application Form and relevant information are available on the EQUIP-G project
website following the link: https://equip-g.eu/#opencall2026.
Questions? Reach out at ipe@equip-g.eu
About EQUIP-G: The EQUIP-G project works towards establishing a perennial European entity managing a shared park of quantum gravimeters and a terrestrial reference gravity network for the benefit and the sovereignty of Europe. In 2029, the EQUIP-G project will provide the European Commission with details and recommendations concerning a future network of shared instruments.
