Overhauser Magnetometer

Indian scientists have developed the country’s first Overhauser Magnetometer, an instrument that helps lower the cost of sensing experiments used in geomagnetic sampling.

What is an overhauser magnetometer?

• A magnetometer is a scientific instrument used for measuring the strength and direction of the magnetic field. It has various applications like geophysical surveys to look for iron deposits, exploration for shipwrecks, etc.
• Overhauser or OVH magnetometer is one of the most accurate magnetometers. It works based on the Overhauser effect. This instrument has several advantages like high accuracy, high sensitivity and power efficiency.
• Until recently, Indian scientists have been relying on imported OVH magnetomers. Now, the scientists at the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) have developed India’s first OVH magnetometer under its technology development program. The sensor is installed at the Alibag Magnetic Observatory.
• Testing of the indigenous OVH magnetometer found it to be on par with its commercial counterparts. It is currently being tested for its long term stability.
• In future, when it is adapted and used in outer space environment, it will support the space research programs.

About Alibag Magnetic Observatory

Alibag Magnetic Observatory is India’s first geomagnetic observatory. This observatory was established in 1904. It is situated in Alibag, Maharashtra. It is under the administration of the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG).

About IIG

The Indian Institute of Geomagnetism is an autonomous research institution under the Indian Government’s Department of Science and Technology (DST). The institute has been undertaking research in geomagnetics and allied fields since 1971.

India has been involved in magnetic observations since 1822 (at Madras). The Colaba Observatory (established in 1841), along with the Alibag Observatory has been providing some 175 years of magnetic field data.

The IIG group’s works are expected to positively contribute towards developing indigenous MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) instruments and others.

Month: Current Affairs – November, 2022

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs