Quantum for Space
Pushing the Boundaries of Exploration with Quantum Technology
Quantum technology is opening an entirely new frontier in numerous space mission domains, including space exploration, navigation, Earth remote sensing, and national security. From enabling ultra-precise timekeeping for satellite constellations, to detecting minute changes in Earth’s gravity from orbit, quantum innovations are transforming how we explore the universe and protect our planet.
In the space environment—where microgravity and isolation from Earth’s disturbances create ideal conditions—quantum sensors and clocks can reach performance levels impossible on the ground. Infleqtion is at the forefront of this revolution, delivering mission-critical quantum systems to NASA/JPL, and the U.S. Air Force.
Quantum Remote Sensing for Science and Earth Observation
Quantum sensors can detect the smallest variations in gravitational fields, helping scientists map underground water reserves, track ice sheet changes, and monitor natural resources with unmatched precision.
- NASA Cold Atom Lab – Infleqtion designed, developed, and tested the Physics Package Assembly for NASA’s Cold Atom Lab aboard the International Space Station. This unique facility cools atoms to near absolute zero in microgravity, creating Bose-Einstein condensates that allow deeper study of quantum behavior and enhanced precision measurement. Read more.
- JPL Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder (QGGPf) – Infleqtion is building the Atomic Physics Package Sensor Head, electronics, and laser/optical systems for this next-generation NASA mission. Scheduled for delivery in 2028, this payload will measure Earth’s gravity field from space with unprecedented accuracy. Read more.
Quantum Timing for Space Navigation and Communications
In an era of growing threats to GPS/GNSS systems, precise and resilient timekeeping is critical for space operations, defense, and global infrastructure.
Infleqtion’s next generation Tiqker-S atomic clock technology will support future GPS spacecraft constellation needs and other commercial or government mission system needs for on-orbit high-precision frequency and timing references.
Enabling Future Quantum Networks in Space
The same quantum properties that make sensors and clocks powerful also enable secure, high-bandwidth quantum communications. Our work with NASA and partners in quantum networking research is laying the groundwork for inter-satellite quantum links that could revolutionize secure data transfer and space-based computing. Read more.
Looking Ahead
The future of space will benefit tremendously from the benefits provided by quantum sensing and computing technologies. By combining decades of expertise in atomic physics with proven engineering for extreme environments, Infleqtion is delivering the tools that will make tomorrow’s space missions smarter and more capable.
Additional Resources
Q2B24 Silicon Valley | Bringing Quantum Technologies to the Booming Space Marketplace
DOE Announces Expansion of the Quantum in Space Collaboration
Read more
Making (Quantum) Memories Together — NASA And Infleqtion Report Important Advance In Quantum Networks
Read more
NASA’s First-Ever Quantum Memory Made at Glenn Research Center
Read more
NASA Aims to Fly First Quantum Sensor for Gravity Measurements
Read more
Get In Touch
Your path to quantum advantage starts here.