CARIOQA-PMP

Future satellite gravimetry missions could combine such quantum sensors with electrostatic accelerometers to form hybrid devices, which would also enable their calibration. This technology could also help exploit the full potential of inter-satellite ranging and aid the determination of time-varying gravity field signals in a gradiometry mission similar to the GOCE mission. Other potential lies in fundamental physics, such as tests of the universality of free fall, the detection of dark matter or dark energy, and the detection of gravitational waves. CARIOQA-PMP will develop a full mission scenario, simulate instrument performance, and investigate future applications of these quantum sensors. It aims to enable the deployment of a quantum pathfinder mission by the end of the decade and plans public outreach to raise awareness of the importance of the project and to gain political support. The science activities are divided into three work packages, including development of a mission scenario, development of assessment tools, and investigation of end-user scenarios for long-term applications. Industrial partners are fabricating an engineering model of this quantum sensor as a precursor of the pathfinder mission.