Quantum computing company Infleqtion to field test critical mineral potential in Colorado
NYSE-listed quantum computing company Infleqtion has announced plans to conduct a field test of its quantum gravity gradiometry technology in Colorado next year, which could demonstrate a new approach to understanding what lies beneath the surface and help strengthen the critical minerals supply chain of the US.
According to Infleqtion CEO Matt Kinsella, the first step toward mineral independence is knowing what you actually have. "In Colorado, we plan to demonstrate how quantum sensing can provide better subsurface intelligence earlier in the exploration process - helping to identify promising geological structures and prioritise where further exploration and drilling should occur."
The planned field test builds on Infleqtion's support for the Quantum-Enhanced Critical Minerals Mapping Act of 2026, which is legislation directing the US Geological Survey to incorporate quantum gravity gradiometry into its Earth Mapping Resources Initiative.
Kinsella points out that the federal government is placing greater emphasis on critical mineral independence, supported by recent administration actions to call for accelerating federal planning for the use of quantum sensing technologies.
"America should not have to rely on foreign countries for the critical minerals we need for our economy and national security," says Congressman Jeff Hurd, explaining that this is the reason why he introduced the Quantum-Enhanced Critical Minerals Mapping Act, to put cutting-edge American technology to work helping the US better understand the resources it has domestically.
"I am glad to see Infleqtion testing this technology in Colorado, and especially pleased that they are looking at potential sites in the Third District. Colorado has long been a leader in both natural resources and innovation, and this is a great example of bringing the two together," Hurd states.
QUANTUM GRAVITY GRADIOMETRY
Quantum gravity gradiometry technology measures extremely small variations in Earth’s gravitational field. Those measurements can reveal differences in underground density and geological structure that may otherwise be difficult to characterise from the surface.
Used alongside existing geological and geophysical methods, this technology has the potential to help exploration teams narrow search areas and make more informed decisions before undertaking costly and invasive drilling.
Infleqtion’s quantum sensing technologies are currently being advanced through programmes with the US Department of War, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the UK Royal Navy.
Infleqtion is evaluating several potential field-test locations within Colorado’s Third Congressional District, represented by Hurd. Additional details on the Colorado field test, including final site selection and timing, are expected to be announced as the programme progresses.
Colorado hosts significant deposits of molybdenum, rare earths, vanadium and copper, among other critical minerals.
