NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Mission Statement

The NASA Ames Quantum Laboratory (NAQL) is an interdisciplinary center bringing together Space scientists, physicists, computer scientists and engineers. It represents an inter-divisional collaboration focusing on research and development at the limits of physical measurement in space-based devices.

These sensors range from inertial navigation tools to communication devices, telescopes and gravity-wave detectors. Quantum devices operating above classical precision limits may incorporate high-power lasers, superconducting circuits, quantum optics, atomic cascades and nano-technology.

Experiments

Coupled with our aims to develop the theory of these devices in realistic settings is our program to fabricate sophisticated space-ready laser sources and detectors. This experimental program will allow us to carry out not just proof-of-principle experiments, but to miniaturize the relevant technologies for small-satellite payload.

Experimental goals range from the investigation of fundamentally quantum principles behind measurement, the application of these discoveries in new types of space-based precision sensors and navigation aids, and the development of a secure random key generator for satellite communication.

External Collaboration

The Quantum Laboratory supports the mission of Department of Defense on developing material and algorithms basis for scalable Revolutionary Computing devices. In particular we are leading two projects in collaboration with Princeton University and Lawrence Berkely National Laboratory on building a silicon-based quantum computer. We also analyze the performance of quantum adiabatic evolution algorithms and its implementation in specific solid-state based architectures.