Month: May 2025

Thesis Defense

Posted on by Lucas Lorini

Luc Archambault’s thesis defense will take place on May 19, 2025 at Paris Observatory (CIFRE thesis: collaboration between the LTE laboratory and EXAIL). The work is entitled “Etude des performances ultimes d’une horloge compacte à atomes refroidis par laser”.

The thesis work includes measurements carried out with a phase transient analysis bench, developed by EXAIL and co-financed by FIRST-TF (Call 2022).

For further information: contact@first-tf.com

Call for Abstracts – EPSC-DPS 2025 Session on “Advanced Methods for Space and Planetary Navigation: Quantum Sensors and Emerging Technologies”

Posted on by Lucas Lorini

Late abstracts are possible until May 21 max
directly with the session organizers
https://www.epsc-dps2025.eu/programme/how-to-submit.html –> Late abstract submissions

We are pleased to invite you — on behalf of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Steffen Schön and myself — to contribute to our session at the upcoming EPSC-DPS Joint Meeting 2025, which will take place from 7–12 September 2025 in Helsinki, Finland.

Session Title: Advanced Methods for Space and Planetary Navigation: Quantum Sensors and Emerging Technologies

Session Link: https://meetingorganizer.copernicus.org/EPSC-DPS2025/session/55153

This session aims to bring together researchers working on the development and application of quantum sensors—such as quantum accelerometers, quantum gyroscopes, and optical clocks—in the context of space navigation.

In addition to quantum technologies, the session will also explore:

  • The feasibility of deep-space GNSS, including recent demonstrations of GNSS signals in cis-lunar space and their potential for lunar and Mars missions.

  • Hybrid navigation systems combining quantum inertial sensors, optical clocks, deep-space GNSS, and other emerging methods.

  • Modern navigation techniques for planetary surface rovers, addressing autonomy, precision, and robustness.

We welcome contributions covering theoretical foundations, experimental implementations, mission concepts, and cross-disciplinary solutions.

Abstract Submission Information:

  • Deadline: 7 May 2025, 13:00 CEST

  • Presentation Formats: Oral, Poster, or Dissertation Talk

  • Participation Options: On-site in Helsinki or Virtual

  • All accepted abstracts will receive a DOI and be published in the conference proceedings.

We look forward to your submissions and to an engaging session on the future of space and planetary navigation.

Quantum Saclay lecture series

Posted on by Lucas Lorini

Robin Corgier and Bess Fang are pleased to announce a specialized course on Quantum Sensing and Quantum Metrology, designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to both the fundamental principles and practical implementations of quantum-enhanced measurements.

  • Dates: May 14 & 21, 2025
  • Location: C2N Amphitheater
  • Lecturers: Luis Orozco, Bess Fang, Robin Corgier

These lectures are open to Master’s students, PhD candidates, postdoctoral , and researchers.

The course is accredited by the doctoral schools EDOM, PHENIICS, AAIF, PIF, and IPP.

For the detailed program and registration: https://quantum-saclay.fr/course-announcement-quantum-sensing-quantum-metrology

ACES/PHARAO space mission

Posted on by Lucas Lorini

On Monday, April 21st, the ACES/PHARAO (Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space) space mission was launched from Cape Canaveral to the International Space Station (ISS). After docking at the ISS, the robotic arm moved the ACES/PHARAO payload to its final location, outside the Columbus module. In-flight validation tests have now begun and will go on for several weeks.

PHARAO will be the first primary frequency standard in space. It exploits laser atom cooling techniques which, combined with the zero-g enviroment, will enable very low atomic velocities and, consequently, ultimate performance in terms of frequency accuracy; the objective is to reach 1.1×10-16 in relative value.

The main purpose of the ACES mission is to carry out experiments in fundamental physics, and in particular to test Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity. Some physicists believe that a ‘small’ deviation from general relativity is necessary to ensure its compatibility with quantum physics. Because this effect is so small, a space instrument with unprecedented accuracy is needed to measure it. With the ACES ensemble: PHARAO, hydrogen maser and time transfer modules, on board the ISS, and clocks on the ground, scattered around the globe and equipped with time transfer stations, this measurement becomes possible.

Ph.Laurent (PHARAO Scientific coordinator)