Chapter 1
The absolute limit of light
Chapter 2
The bird with the quantum compass
Chapter 3
The fragile quantum web
Chapter 4
Quantum eyes and inspired tech
YOUR GOAL
Master of How our eyes touch the quantum world
Ch 2 · The bird with the quantum compass
007skaty The European Robin's Quantum Compass
Spinning in the blue, entangled electrons show me the way!
007skaty Night migratory songbirds navigate using cryptochrome four, a protein that is much more sensitive to magnetic fields in
007skaty The glowing blue quantum switch shines during a laboratory demonstration of quantum vision.
BETA
007skaty Trace quantum flight paths to learn how quantum vision sensors navigate complex skies.
Fun Fact
Quantum bird compass: European robins can only use their built-in magnetic compass when blue light is shining in their eyes.
Glossary
cryptochrome (noun)
A class of light-sensitive flavoproteins found in plants and animals that regulate various biological processes. In 2000, physicist Thorsten Ritz proposed that European robins use this retinal protein for geomagnetic navigation.
A class of light-sensitive flavoproteins found in plants and animals that regulate various biological processes. In 2000, physicist Thorsten Ritz proposed that European robins use this retinal protein for geomagnetic navigation.
Quiz
Who first proposed in 1978 that a radical pair mechanism could explain magnetic sensing?