- Trump's executive order directs NASA to submit a five-year plan for developing and extending civilian quantum sensing and networking for space applications within 120 days.
- The White House has issued an executive order aiming to unify and accelerate U.S. development of quantum technologies, including space systems that could enable next-generation navigation, sensing and secure communications.
President Trump's executive order directs NASA to create a five-year plan for quantum space applications, enhancing U.S. capabilities in navigation, sensing, and secure communications. The order, signed on June 22, requires NASA to submit its plan within 120 days, focusing on civilian quantum technologies.1
Additionally, the order mandates the Department of War to identify three next-generation quantum sensor projects within 60 days, prioritizing them for deployment by September 30, 2028. This initiative is part of a broader effort to unify and accelerate U.S. development of quantum technologies, which are crucial for future space exploration and security.
The executive order also establishes the Quantum Computer for Application Development and Discovery Science (QC-ADDS) initiative, aimed at developing a quantum computer for scientific applications. Industry coalition Infleqtion has announced the America’s Quantum Space Initiative, which seeks to advance quantum technology demonstrations to operational capability.
Experts like Kinsella emphasize the potential of quantum sensors, stating they could provide a 10x to 1,000x improvement in precision over existing sensors. With these advancements, quantum sensors could effectively recreate GPS with enhanced capabilities, positioning the U.S. at the forefront of quantum technology in space.
China's significant investments in quantum communications, particularly for encrypted communications between Earth and space, highlight the competitive landscape in this emerging field.
“The White House has issued an executive order to unify U.S. development of quantum technologies, including space systems. NASA is tasked with submitting a five-year plan for civilian quantum sensing and networking for space applications.”
SpaceNews