Quantum Diamond Microscope Breakthrough in India

India’s Quantum Leap

Quantum Diamond Microscope Breakthrough in India: India has entered a new era of scientific advancement with the launch of its first Quantum Diamond Microscope (QDM). Developed by the P-Quest Group at IIT Bombay, this milestone was announced at ESTIC 2025, reflecting India’s growing leadership in quantum sensing and advanced diagnostics. This achievement marks a major boost to the country’s effort to strengthen indigenous quantum technologies.

Static GK fact: India launched the National Quantum Mission in 2023 to promote quantum computing, sensing, materials, and communication.

What the Microscope Does

The Quantum Diamond Microscope is an advanced device that detects extremely small magnetic fields using nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers embedded in diamond. These atomic-scale defects respond to minute magnetic disturbances and present them as measurable optical signals. This allows researchers to study magnetic phenomena that traditional microscopes cannot capture.

Static GK Tip: Diamonds are the hardest known natural material, ranking 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them suitable for precision scientific applications.

How the Technology Works

The QDM uses Optically Detected Magnetic Resonance (ODMR) to read magnetic changes. When laser light hits the NV centers, they fluoresce differently depending on the magnetic fields around them. This principle enables real-time, three-dimensional magnetic imaging. It works at room temperature, which is a major advantage over many quantum devices that require cryogenic environments.

The system can also create widefield nanoscale images, enabling researchers to observe dynamic magnetic processes without damaging the sample.

Advancing Neuroscience

In neuroscience, the QDM can map the magnetic activity of neurons and tissues with unprecedented precision. This allows scientists to examine real-time brain signaling without invasive procedures. Such capability could deepen understanding of neurological disorders and support the development of targeted therapies.

Static GK fact: The human brain contains nearly 86 billion neurons, each generating tiny magnetic signals during communication.

Transforming Semiconductor Diagnostics

India’s growing semiconductor ecosystem will benefit significantly from this technology. Modern 3D chip architectures are hard to analyse using conventional tools. The QDM can visualise current flow and magnetic layers inside chips without dismantling them. This is crucial for quality control in autonomous systems, cryogenic processors, and high-performance electronic devices.

Boosting Materials and Battery Research

In materials science, the QDM helps track ionic movement, phase transitions, and magnetic interactions inside complex materials. Its ability to observe sealed or layered structures makes it valuable for battery diagnostics. This supports research into safer and more efficient energy storage technologies.

Static GK fact: Lithium-ion batteries were commercialised in 1991 and remain the primary energy source for portable electronics.

Strengthening India’s Quantum Mission

The launch aligns with the goals of the National Quantum Mission (NQM) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Led by Prof. Kasturi Saha, the P-Quest Group has also secured India’s first patent in the field of quantum magnetic imaging. The presence of senior scientific leaders, including Dr. Jitendra Singh, Prof. Ajay K. Sood, and Prof. Abhay Karandikar, highlights strong national support for this innovation.

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Quantum Diamond Microscope Breakthrough in India: