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6 Quantum Sensor: Precise Eyes that Gaze into the Moment
Various Quantum Sensors
Particles like electrons have a quantum property called “spin,” which makes them behave like tiny magnets. This spin is highly sensitive and reacts to even the slightest changes in the environment. By harnessing this sensitivity, ultra-sensitive sensors are being developed to explore new possibilities in fundamental science, medicine, manufacturing, energy, resource exploration, and life sciences.
In this exhibit, you’ll discover two types of sensors that utilize quantum spin. One is a diamond-based quantum sensor developed by the Institute of Science Tokyo, which uses spins inside diamond, and the other is a compact MRI system created by Tohoku University.
Come and experience how quantum technology is shaping the future.
Diamond Quantum Sensor
Institute of Science Tokyo
Institute of Science Tokyo is conducting research and development on quantum sensors using pink diamonds. The sensor,“Diamond NV Center,” involves replacing one carbon atom in a diamond with a nitrogen atom, and a vacancy is formed next to it. When light irradiates the NV center, fluorescence occurs, and changes in the fluorescence intensity enable ultra-high-sensitivity measurement of magnetic fields, electric fields, and temperature. At the exhibition, visitors can enjoy learning about the mysteries and mechanisms of ultra-high-performance sensors in a fun quiz format.
Production: iro Inc.
Cooperation: SIP3 Quantum “Promoting Application of Advanced Quantum
Technologies to Social Challenges”(Cabinet Office), Q-LEAP（MEXT）
TMR Sensors, and Spin-MR
Tohoku University
Quantum spin electronics technology is attracting attention. This technology enables the high-precision capture, high-speed processing, and visualization of biological information present in the human brain and information within structures that cannot be observed externally, by observing magnetic fields. A spin refers to an extremely small magnet that exists at the quantum level, and by utilizing this spin, it is possible to measure various changes in magnetic fields with high sensitivity. In this exhibition, we will introduce “Spin-MRI,” a highly compact MRI device that employs quantum spin electronics sensors (commonly referred to as TMR sensors).
Production: siro Inc.
Cooperation: SIP3 Quantum “Promoting Application of Advanced Quantum Technologies to Social Challenges”(Cabinet Office)
Related information
Mikihiko Oogane Laboratory, Tohoku University ➡Go to website
ART
Diamond Quantum Sensors
Installation Using TMR Sensors, and Spin-MRI
Production: Siro Inc.
2025
Siro Inc., whose work spans planning, prototyping, and development, and extends from engineering-based problem-solving to realization of imaging systems, presents an exhibit developed at the Institute of Science Tokyo that uses design to explore themes such as “quantum × light” and the subtle presence of quantum behavior in everyday life. In addition the company presents a real-time installation that uses light and sound to sensitively detect changes in spatial magnetic fields, using quantum spin sensors (TMR sensors). The exhibit also features a hands-on display of a compact, room-temperature MRI device that applies quantum sensing, developed in collaboration with Tohoku University.
Diamond quantum sensors｜Cooperation: SIP3 Quantum “Promoting Application of Advanced Quantum Technologies to Social Challenges” (Cabinet Office), Q-LEAP(MEXT)
Installation using TMR sensors, and Spin-MRI｜Cooperation: SIP3 Quantum “Promoting Application of Advanced Quantum Technologies to Social Challenges” (Cabinet Office)
