Quantum technologies and the elephants

Abstract

Extraordinary progress in quantum sensors and technologies opens new avenues for exploring the Universe and testing the assumptions forming the basis of modern physics. This QST focus issue: focus on quantum sensors for new-physics discoveries is a next-decade roadmap on developing a wide range of quantum sensors and new technologies towards discoveries of new physics. It covers the next generation of various technologies, including atomic and nuclear clocks, atomic and diamond-based magnetometers, atom and laser interferometers, control of trapped atoms, ions, and molecules, optomechanical systems, and many others. In this editorial, we outline major problems of fundamental physics we aim to solve (the 'elephants in the room') and define a 'quantum sensor'.