# Near a black hole, quantum circuit readings change, not the rules Gravity affects measurements, not quantum principles. - **Source:** [Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories](https://brifing.si/source/8b0f98da-d179-4c93-871f-7ac460bf9c61) - **Published:** 2026-07-26 - **Topic:** [Data & AI](https://brifing.si/c/data-ai) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/776934fe-9c53-4fba-a565-234668d15820 ## The Role of Gravity in the Quantum World Extreme gravitational environments like black holes raise questions about how they affect quantum systems. This mystery is one of the biggest challenges in modern physics. Precise quantum devices like Josephson junctions offer critical tools to understand these interactions. Researchers study their behavior near black holes to bridge the gap between quantum mechanics and general relativity. ## What Is a Josephson Junction? A Josephson junction is a quantum component formed by two superconductors separated by a thin insulating barrier. This structure converts voltage into quantum oscillations, enabling extremely precise measurements. Studying its behavior near a black hole provides a unique opportunity to test the universality of quantum physics under strong gravitational fields. ## The Black Hole Effect The intense gravity of black holes warps space-time, which can alter the measurements of quantum systems. However, research shows that this effect doesn’t change quantum rules—it only influences how a distant observer interprets the readings. This finding supports the idea that quantum mechanics operates universally, even under extreme conditions. ## The Experiment's Logic Researchers analyze the theoretical outcomes of placing a Josephson junction near a black hole. In this scenario, the device’s internal workings remain unaffected by gravity, but a distant observer’s measurements may change due to gravitational influence. This provides crucial insights into how quantum information is preserved under gravity. ## The Link Between Quantum and Gravity Quantum mechanics and general relativity are the two pillars of modern physics, but unifying them remains a challenge. Understanding their interaction in extreme environments like black holes could be a key step toward a unified theory. Josephson junctions are becoming vital tools in this pursuit. ## The Observer Effect The role of the observer in quantum systems has always been intriguing. Near a black hole, a quantum device’s readings may vary depending on the observer’s position. This offers a new perspective on how quantum measurements align with relativity. Further research is needed to explore these interactions deeply. ## Practical Applications This research isn’t limited to theoretical physics—it could also impact quantum technology development. For instance, understanding how quantum computers function in extreme environments could expand their future applications. Josephson junctions play an indispensable role in advancing these studies. ## Scientific Implications This study provides strong evidence for the universal validity of quantum mechanics. Even near a black hole, quantum rules remain unchanged—only the measurements are affected. This discovery could open new research avenues and inspire innovative methods to explore quantum-gravity interactions. ## Sources covering this story - https://phys.org/news/2026-07-black-hole-gravity-quantum-circuit.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._