Boosting Space Weather Tracking with Mini Quantum Magnetometers

Space storms can cause big changes in the magnetosphere and ionosphere, leading to ground-induced currents that matter a lot for both engineering and science. Right now, we use big networks of ground magnetometers to measure this, usually set up at special observatory sites. But what if we could make this network even better? Scientists have found that adding remote quantum magnetometers can help. These tiny tools are super sensitive and can calibrate themselves. Plus, they don't need wires or power lines to work. One type of quantum magnetometer that's really promising is the optically pumped kind. These can be made in big numbers and are small enough to be used anywhere. They have just the right sensitivity and stability to watch space weather. Researchers have shown how to make and use an off-grid magnetic sensing node powered by the sun. They've even tested it during times of low and high geomagnetic activity and compared the results with existing observatories.