102 - Quantum receiver for navigation applications

Recently, a wide range of experimental quantum techniques have been demonstrated in communications and sensing fields. Atom-based quantum techniques are emerging as a completely new and promising tool for advanced communications. Accurate radio-frequency (RF) electromagnetic field sensing in free-space plays a fundamental role in wireless communication, and Rydberg atoms are remarkable quantum sensors for RF electric field measurements.

The working principle of the quantum electric field sensor starts with lasers excited atoms to high-energy Rydberg states, with a large principal quantum number n (where typically 10 ≤ n ≤ 100). This high n value means that the electron is in a very high-energy state in which the atoms act as highly sensitive electric dipoles. Incident RF/microwave radiation from near-DC to THz affects the internal state of Rydberg atoms, which in turn imposes modulations on the optical fields passing through the atoms. These modulations are read out as spectral features on the electrical current produced by a photodetector. The coupling of incident RF or microwave radiation to the Rydberg atoms is a coherent process, which does not mandate any net absorption of the incoming radiation. In contrast, traditional antennas operate by absorbing incident radiation, which drives free electrons and produces a current that carries the properties of the incident field. 

In recent years, there has been a surge of new research and engineering of these sensors, including the development of a miniaturized sensor head, and the first demonstration of angle-of-arrival measurements (by BT Group for example).

The objective of this activity is to to study, design, and demonstrate the use of quantum receivers for navigation applications. Furthermore, the quantum receiver shall be exploited to provide Angle of Arrival estimates for multiple Signals-of-Opportunity (SoOP) in various frequency bands. To handle appropriately this activity’s technology risk, a go/no-go check point will be established, during the execution of the contract, to ensure its ultimate feasibility. 

 

The tasks to be performed shall include:

• Survey of Rydberg receivers state-of-the-art 
• Investigate solutions such as Rydberg electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) in atomic vapours 
• Study direction finding applications based on phase difference measurements
• Provide a new receiver architecture for navigation purposes
• Demonstrate the deployment of quantum receiver with GNSS, LEO-PNT, or terrestrial-based positioning.

The main outputs of the activity will consist of:

• Report on state-of-the-art
• Design description and justification report
• Quantum receiver prototype for navigation applications (TRL at least 4).