NASA researchers have shared insights into the promising use of quantum sensing technologies, specifically matter-wave interferometry, aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
Upgraded hardware being prepared at Jet Propulsion Lab for launch and install into the Cold Atom Lab on the International Space Station. The Science Module in the background enables CAL researchers to conduct atom interferometry research in Earth’s orbit. Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech
The team has been looking at how these sensors could significantly enhance our ability to measure gravitational and other physical forces in space, offering new ways to study the fundamental laws of the universe and analyze the makeup of planetary bodies.
Background
Matter-wave interferometry relies on the quantum behavior of ultracold atoms, which, at extremely low temperatures, act more like waves than particles. By exploiting this wave-like nature, scientists can make highly sensitive measurements of gravitational acceleration, magnetic fields, and other forces through interference patterns created when atomic matter waves are split and then recombined.
While this approach has already been used on Earth to test core physics principles—like the universality of free fall—and to develop GPS-independent navigation systems, its full potential comes into play in microgravity.
In space, where the effects of gravity are reduced, these sensors benefit from longer measurement times and lower noise levels. The result is enhanced precision and sensitivity, which can surpass the limitations of Earth-based systems. In orbit, atom interferometers can detect even the smallest variations in gravitational fields—variations that are often obscured by Earth’s gravity.
Quantum Experiments on the ISS
The recent work involves manipulating ultracold rubidium and potassium atoms inside a custom vacuum chamber in the Cold Atom Lab. Scientists use carefully timed laser pulses to place these atoms into a superposition state, essentially putting them in multiple positions at once. The atoms are then allowed to evolve in space, influenced by gravity and other forces, before being recombined to create interference patterns that contain key measurement data.
Because this all happens in microgravity, the atoms remain suspended for longer than they could on Earth, which helps improve precision. The lab uses retro-reflected laser beams and magnetic traps to manipulate the atoms without physical contact, reducing disturbances. The setup also includes sensors to monitor vibrations and track changes in laser frequency, factors that can affect the accuracy of results in orbit.
What NASA Observed
The experiments show that matter-wave interferometry works reliably in space, even in the challenging environment aboard the ISS. One of the notable achievements was successfully running a dual-species interferometer using both rubidium and potassium atoms. This approach allows scientists to directly compare how different types of atoms respond to the same conditions, making it possible to test core ideas like the equivalence principle (a key part of general relativity).
NASA also reported that the quantum sensor could detect minute environmental changes, such as mechanical vibrations and shifts in laser frequency. This built-in sensitivity suggests the device could play a dual role: both conducting precision measurements and helping monitor its surrounding environment in future space missions.
What it Means for the Future
This announcement marks an important step in adapting quantum sensing technology for use beyond Earth. By taking advantage of microgravity, researchers can perform experiments that aren’t feasible in terrestrial labs, opening new opportunities for studying fundamental physics and exploring the Moon, Mars, and other planetary bodies.
Looking ahead, tools like these could support everything from navigation systems that don’t rely on satellites to advanced sensors for planetary exploration. And as quantum technologies continue to develop, their role in space science is likely to grow, both as instruments of discovery and as practical tools for mission support.