Neutral-atom quantum computing firm Infleqtion plans to test a quantum sensing system in Colorado in 2027 that could help locate critical mineral deposits underground before exploration companies spend heavily on drilling. The company says its quantum gravity gradiometry (QGG) technology can detect extremely small variations in Earth’s gravitational field. Those changes can reveal differences in underground density and geological structures that may point to potential mineral deposits. The planned field demonstration will test whether the technology can provide useful subsurface information earlier in the mineral exploration process. Infleqtion is evaluating several possible sites in Colorado’s Third Congressional District, with the final location and timing still to be announced. If successful, the approach could give exploration teams another way to narrow down promising areas before bringing in drilling equipment. That matters because finding and developing domestic sources of critical minerals can be expensive, time-consuming, and uncertain. Quantum sensing sees underground QGG works by measuring tiny changes in gravity caused by variations in the density of material beneath the ground. Different geological formations produce different gravitational signatures, allowing sensors to build a picture of what may be below the surface. The technology does not replace drilling or existing geological surveys. Instead, Infleqtion says it could be used alongside established geological and geophysical techniques to identify areas that deserve closer investigation. More from Innovation See All That could change an early stage of mineral exploration, where companies must decide where to spend money collecting more detailed data and drilling test wells. Better information before drilling could help reduce the number of low-potential sites that move into more expensive exploration stages. “America cannot secure the supply chains it cannot see,” said Matt Kinsella, CEO of Infleqtion. “The first step toward mineral independence is knowing what you actually have. In Colorado, we plan to demonstrate