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CARIOQA PHA · Project

High-Precision Quantum Space Sensors for Climate and Earth Gravity Mapping

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Imagine a super-sensitive scale that can weigh the Earth from space to see where water or ice is moving. This project uses atoms cooled to nearly absolute zero to create a quantum ruler that detects tiny changes in gravity. It is like upgrading from a blurry old map to a high-definition 3D scan of the planet's mass.

By the numbers
6
consortium partners
4
countries involved
50%
industry ratio
The business problem

What needed solving

Current space gravimetry lacks the precision needed for advanced climate science. There is a strategic need to master quantum sensing in orbit to accurately monitor Earth's mass distribution.

The solution

What was built

A feasibility study and system architecture analysis for a quantum gravimeter, concluding with a Preliminary Requirement Review.

Audience

Who needs this

Satellite prime contractorsClimate research institutesSpace agency procurement officersQuantum sensor hardware developers
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Climate Monitoring
enterprise
Target: Environmental Intelligence Agency

If you are an agency dealing with unpredictable sea-level rises and ice melt — this project developed the architecture for a quantum gravimeter that provides superior performance in tracking mass movement. This allows for more accurate climate science predictions.

Aerospace Manufacturing
enterprise
Target: Satellite Component Manufacturer

If you are a manufacturer dealing with the need for next-generation orbital instruments — this project identified critical technologies and components for a Quantum Pathfinder Mission. This provides a roadmap for building space-grade quantum sensors.

Geodesy & Mapping
mid-size
Target: Geophysical Survey Firm

If you are a survey firm dealing with low-resolution gravity field models — this project investigated system architectures for quantum accelerometry in orbit. This enables the creation of ultra-precise gravity maps for Earth sciences.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the cost or price of this technology?

Based on available project data, the specific EU contribution and unit costs are not provided in the dataset.

Is this technology ready for industrial scale?

No, the project is currently in Phase A, which focuses on feasibility studies and identifying critical technologies to prepare for future deployment within the decade.

How is the IP and licensing managed?

IPR management is handled by expert partners, including CNES and PRAXI Network/FORTH, who have a track record of supporting EU funded projects.

What is the timeline for deployment?

The goal is to deploy the Quantum Space Gravimetry Pathfinder Mission within the decade.

How does this integrate with existing space missions?

The project investigates system architectures and operations concepts to ensure harmonization with the European programmatic framework.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is highly balanced with a 50% industry ratio, consisting of 6 partners across 4 countries. It is led by major space agencies (CNES and DLR), combining high-level institutional oversight with specialized industrial expertise from companies like ADS-F, ADS-G, and GMV, ensuring the research is aligned with actual satellite manufacturing capabilities.

How to reach the team

Contact CNES (Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales) in France.

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to track the transition of CARIOQA from Phase A to Phase B.

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