Quantum Sensors have various applications in the aerospace domain, based on two key properties: They are effective in measuring physical quantities with very high sensitivity and at very low drifts One future area of application is a rapid improvement of Earth observation from Space. In this presentation, Airbus’ work in developing a space payload based on cold-atom interferometry to measure Earth’s gravitational field is highlighted. In the frame of the European Commission program CARIOQA, Airbus is responsible for the development of such a space instrument. We collaborate with European research groups, space agencies and other industrial partners to pave the way for the quantum pathfinder mission, an in-orbit demonstrator planned to be launched into space by the end of this decade. Such quantum enhanced instruments will provide more accurate data of the Earth with high relevance e.g. for climate modeling.

Dr. Jasper Simon Krauser, Quantum Technology Central Coordinator, Airbus