Quantum Leaps
Unraveling mysteries of the universe
Impact & Benefits
Much remains unknown about our universe – 95% of matter and energy, to be more precise. While scientists have made many discoveries using contemporary physics, abundant mysteries remain. That’s why NASA researchers use space to probe phenomena, such as quantum gases and entanglement, and the ties between the quantum world and Einstein’s theories.
Quick Facts
Fundamental quantum research has contributed to technologies such as cell phones, computers, GPS, medical imaging, and more.
The Cold Atom Lab launched to the International Space Station in May 2018.
Cold Atom Lab enables researchers to cool atoms to near absolute zero.
Even with the most advanced instruments on Earth, gravity and other terrestrial limitations obscure our ability to observe quantum behaviors.
Researchers use quantum sensors, such as atom interferometers and atomic clocks, to probe our understanding of quantum behaviors.
What is quantum science?
Quantum physics is the study of extremely small atomic particles. Quantum science aims to better understand the world around us and apply quantum theories to real-world technology solutions. Many technologies used in everyday life today have been informed by quantum research, including cell phones, computers, GPS navigation, medical imaging, and more.
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Investigations
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01
Cold Atom Lab
Uses the space station's microgravity environment to study quantum phenomena in ways that aren’t possible on Earth. The facility uses lasers to cool atoms down to less than a degree above absolute zero, which enables scientists to make more detailed observations of atoms and how they interact with each other. Multiple groups are conducting experiments inside the Cold Atom Lab, which is operated completely remotely from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
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02
SEAQUE (Space Entanglement and Annealing QUantum Experiment)
This experiment will test technology that could make communications easier and stronger between quantum systems across significant distances. It aims to validate a new technology in space to improve how quantum computers communicate, using space entanglement. The SEAQUE platform will be affixed to the outside of the International Space Station, where the instrument will be exposed directly to the space radiation environment.
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03
ACES (Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space)
This experiment tests fundamental physics from the outside the space station. According to Einstein’s theory of general relativity, gravity affects the passing of time. Experiments on Earth have shown that time flies faster at higher altitudes, such as the tops of mountains, than at sea level. ACES will take this experiment to the next level, making precise measurements on the space station as it flies 400 km above Earth.
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