The contract is to develop a novel space-based quantum gravimetry sensor system known as QASM
Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA) has awarded a contract to develop a novel space-based quantum gravimetry sensor system known as QASM (Quantum Atomic Subsurface Mapper) to the Canadian Space Mining Corporation (CSMC)
QASM is a dual-use sensing platform designed to detect and characterise subsurface resources, such as critical minerals and water, from orbit on Earth and other planetary bodies.
The project is a significant milestone in EU-Canada cooperation on quantum technologies for space exploration, combining Canadian innovation with European technical and industrial expertise.
Bob Lamboray, senior manager, Exploration and Space Resources at the Luxembourg Space Agency, said, "Luxembourg has long been committed to building international partnerships that accelerate sustainable space exploration. Through collaboration with CSMC and ESA, we are combining Europe's and Canada's strengths in quantum research, resource science, and commercial space development."
Daniel Sax, CEO of CSMC, said, "This project is another example of our commitment to growing Canada's Quantum advantage. Quantum sensors like QASM will redefine how we can more intelligently meet society's resource needs. QASM has the potential to revolutionise how we detect critical minerals, water, and other things below the surface, which is still today a bit of a needle in a haystack. We are extremely grateful for the support of LSA and ESA on this. This collaboration demonstrates the power of transatlantic innovation."
QASM, developed in Canada, will use cold-atom interferometry to achieve ultra-sensitive gravity measurements. These capabilities are necessary to identify resources below Earth's surface, address growing resource challenges, and enhance the detection of natural resources with greater efficacy. Early laboratory demonstrations of the QASM system are scheduled for 2026, with field testing and validation to follow.
