Esa’s Efforts on Quantum Sensing for Space-Based Earth Observation

Globally, space agencies actively evaluate quantum sensing for its practical applications in space-based Earth Observation (EO), focusing on how it can improve accuracy, stability and enable new operational concepts. The near future looks promising for specific quantum technologies like Cold-Atom Interferometers (CAI), Rydberg Receivers (RR), and Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) center-based magnetometers. These have the potential to enhance existing EO instrumentation in specific areas. A key task ahead is to identify and evaluate these potential improvements in the context of EO missions and to explore new observational concepts that may be enabled by these technologies. In our presentation, we will discuss the ongoing and planned activities in this area supported by the European Space Agency’s (ESA). This includes work on CAI for gravimetry, RRs in microwave radiometry, and NV center-based magnetometers for studying the Earth’s magnetosphere.