This workshop gives payload engineers and PNT architects a technically grounded assessment of quantum sensing technologies for space-based Earth observation, geodesy, and sovereign navigation.
Examines quantum sensing technologies with direct space applications: cold atom interferometric gravimeters for geodesy and resource detection, optical lattice and cold atom clocks for enhanced PNT accuracy and GNSS-denied navigation, and quantum magnetometers (NV-centre and SERF) for geomagnetic field mapping and space weather monitoring. Covers the current technology readiness levels, the gap between laboratory demonstration and space qualification, and commercial pathways for Earth observation and sovereign navigation payloads.
Quantum sensors exploit superposition and entanglement to achieve measurement sensitivities beyond classical limits. Cold atom interferometers have demonstrated gravity gradient sensitivities of 10^-9 g in laboratory settings, potentially improving on the electrostatic accelerometers used in GRACE-FO for ice mass loss monitoring and groundwater mapping. Optical lattice clocks have reached fractional frequency stabilities of 10^-18 in laboratory, two orders of magnitude beyond the caesium microwave clocks in current GNSS satellites. The challenge is bridging the gap to space. Vibration isolation, thermal stability, laser system reliability, and radiation tolerance all require engineering solutions that are at varying stages of maturity. Some technologies (chip-scale cold atom clocks) are approaching TRL 6. Others (space optical lattice clocks) remain at TRL 3-4. This workshop provides the engineering-level detail needed to assess which quantum sensing investments are realistic for near-term missions and which are longer-term research bets.
Full-day session structure with scheduled breaks. Content is configurable to your mission focus area (geodesy, PNT, space weather) and payload integration requirements.
| # | Session | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Quantum Sensing Physics for Space Applications How cold atom interferometry, optical clocks, and magnetometers work in the space context | |
| 2 | Quantum Gravimetry and Geodesy Cold atom interferometers for Earth observation from orbit |
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| Break, after 50 min | ||
| 3 | Quantum Clocks and Positioning, Navigation, Timing Optical lattice clocks and cold atom clocks for sovereign PNT |
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| 4 | Interactive Demonstration: Quantum Sensor Performance Modelling Full-day format only |
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| Break, after 60 min | ||
| 5 | Quantum Magnetometry and Space Weather NV-centre and SERF magnetometers for geomagnetic field mapping |
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| 6 | Commercial Landscape and Programme Guidance Technology readiness, vendor assessment, and sovereign capability |
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| 7 | Q&A and Programme Planning | |
Workshops are designed and delivered by QSECDEF in collaboration with sector specialists. All facilitators have direct experience in both quantum technologies and space systems.
Workshop design and delivery
QSECDEF brings world-leading expertise in post-quantum cryptography, quantum computing strategy, and defence-grade security assessment. Our advisory membership spans 600+ organisations and 1,200+ professionals working at the intersection of quantum technologies and critical infrastructure security.
Domain expertise and operational validation
Space workshops are co-delivered with sector specialists who bring direct operational experience in space organisations. This ensures workshop content is grounded in regulatory, operational, and technical realities specific to the sector.
Sessions are configured around your mission focus (geodesy, PNT, space weather), payload integration constraints, and technology maturity requirements. Get in touch to discuss requirements and schedule a date.
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