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Mobile magnetic anomaly detection using a field-compensated high-T-c single layer SQUID gradiometer

Single layer SQUID gradiometers can measure ultra-small magnetic field gradients, but they have long proved difficult to operate outside magnetic shielding, preventing widespread deployment. Here we finally remove this limitation by introducing a field compensated gradiometer system that is fully mobile in a magnetically hostile environment, and the Earth's field, without any loss in magnetic target detection capability. This led CSIRO Materials (Australia) (co-authors) to adopt such devices, as part of their programme (co-funded by the US SERDP) for marine detection/clean-up of unexploded ordnance, and their "Minerals Down Under Flagship" programme for cheaper/more reliable airborne surveying (contact Shane Keenan).