Quantum Apertures (QA)
Abstract
The Quantum Apertures (QA) program will develop novel radio receiver and aperture systems using quantum sensors as the receiving elements. These receiver systems will be portable, programmable over a very large frequency range, and more sensitive than classical systems at similar size and temperature. This will be achieved by exploiting quantum-based receiving elements composed of atomic vapor cells in highly-excited Rydberg states that have programmable sensitivity over a large range of frequencies and amplitudes. The program will require quantum engineering and traditional electro-mechanical systems engineering to overcome technical and application challenges that impede rapid adoption of a quantum aperture receiver by the defense industrial base. The receiver system's enhanced capabilities will be leveraged in this program to develop novel waveforms while also being compatible with constraints imposed by real-world defense applications. The final receiver system will comprise a phase-sensitive array of quantum receiving elements, lasers to program the sensor and read out radio signals, and processing electronics. Beginning in FY 2024, this program is funded in PE 0602716E, Project ELT-02.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- 5581af610f5afcbf9681a780dafcef1a
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- Root: ELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY