QuantX Labs
QuantX Labs will send innovative optical atomic clock technology into orbit.
QuantX Labs, a global leader in quantum sensor and precise timing technologies, is preparing to launch its cutting-edge equipment into space, marking a significant milestone in Australian space technology. In collaboration with the French space logistics firm Exotrail, QuantX plans to introduce TEMPO, a crucial aspect of its atomic clock technology, on the spacevan vehicle that will set out on a SpaceX mission as early as December 2025.
With the help of a $3.7 million grant from the Moon to Mars program of the Australian Space Agency, QuantX Labs will introduce a crucial component of their next-generation optical atomic clock. The Agency’s strong focus, vision, and faith in the Australian space industry are demonstrated by this investment, which will develop sovereign capabilities and establish Australia as a leader in space-based precise timing and navigation.
Beyond high-performance timing, this crucial subsystem, known as an optical frequency comb, is a state-of-the-art instrument that enables a wide range of space applications, including synchronized Earth observations, navigation, deep-space communications, and precise location. Since their invention at the turn of the century, optical combs have garnered widespread attention and were awarded the 2005 Nobel Prize in Physics.
An optical frequency comb will be launched into orbit for the first time with QuantX’s demonstration. Its comb has already passed stringent environmental testing, including the requirement that it withstand the harsh launch conditions. This included operating under the harsh temperature fluctuations that are typical in space, intense acceleration and vibration, vacuum exposure, and radiation levels that were higher than those anticipated during the course of the mission.
They all use satellite navigation systems (GPS and similar networks) in their cars and phones daily, and high-precision timing in space is already a useful resource. The goal of this initial deployment of TEMPO’s incredibly accurate timing technology is to establish the groundwork for an Australian-only solution and a replacement for the existing GPS and comparable networks.
Professor Andre Luiten, Managing Director of QuantX Labs, emphasised the importance of the impending launch: “This launch is the result of innumerable hours of labour by our engineers and physicists, and it also marks a breakthrough for our TEMPO technology. We have achieved this result at a significantly lower cost and in a significantly shorter amount of time than is customary. We are immensely pleased of our accomplishments and thrilled to see Australia become a leader in precision timing based in space.
To further test and integrate the module onboard spacevan, a team from QuantX Labs will visit France this month to work with Exotrail. These procedures will be carried out at Exotrail’s headquarters facilities just south of Paris before the vehicle carrying the QuantX payload is shipped to the launch location in the United States. After launching a successful demonstration flight at the end of 2023 and continuing to serve customers in orbit, this one-year in-space mission will be Exotrail’s second.
Read more on QpiAI Launches 25-Qubit Superconducting Quantum Computer
The significance of this launch was highlighted by Dr. Sebastian Ng, PNT Program Lead at QuantX Labs: “The Frequency Comb launch is a critical milestone for the KAIROS mission, as the enabling technology for LEO optical clocks.” If it deploys successfully, it will yield important information as we move closer to the complete clock payload. Next-generation positioning, navigation, and timing capabilities are made possible by this technology. Our team will continue to develop and integrate the entire TEMPO system to make sure it is prepared for upcoming space missions.
Read more on The QUANTUM WR-5246-40: A NeW HPC Test Chambers
For QuantX Labs and Australia’s expanding space industry, the Frequency Comb’s successful launch into space will be a historic accomplishment. As the KAIROS mission approaches launch, its partnership with Exotrail demonstrates how effective global collaborations are at developing cutting-edge technologies. With a history of successful missions and Exotrail’s demonstrated proficiency in in-space mobility solutions, this launch will not only showcase TEMPO’s capabilities but also firmly establish Australia as a pioneer in space-based precision timing.