SBQuantum Secures Second ESA Contract for Quantum Sensors

Canadian startup SBQuantum, operating as SB Technologies Inc., has signed a second contract with the European Space Agency (ESA), valued at $1 million. This agreement focuses on developing an upgraded prototype quantum sensor intended for Earth observation missions set to launch in 2028. This new contract builds on the initial deal established in August 2023, where SBQuantum was tasked with conducting a feasibility study on their innovative technology, which measures magnetic fields utilizing principles of quantum mechanics.

“Securing this second contract with the ESA is the latest in a series of strong signals from the market indicating the vast potential our quantum magnetometers offer as a sensor deployed in space,” stated David Roy-Guay, founder and chief executive of SBQuantum. His enthusiasm reflects the growing interest in the applications of quantum technology in environmental monitoring and navigation.

The ESA aims to deploy quantum sensors to gather enhanced data on changing ocean currents, temperatures, and shifts in the Earth’s magnetic field. Such information is crucial for improving navigation systems, including compasses and global positioning systems (GPS). The technology also has the potential to track magnetic storms, which can disrupt navigation and communication systems on Earth.

“The Earth and its ecosystem are evolving. Humankind needs to better monitor these changes so we can fully understand them, prepare, and adapt,” added Roy-Guay. He emphasized the importance of real-time data for understanding environmental shifts and potential impacts on human activities.

Innovations and Future Prospects

Based in Sherbrooke, Quebec, SBQuantum is also a finalist in the MagQuest Challenge, organized by the United States’ National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA). This competition seeks new tools for monitoring changes in the Earth’s magnetic field. As part of the fourth phase of this program, SBQuantum plans to send its sensors into space on a SpaceX ride-share mission scheduled for March 2024.

“We have already passed all testing successfully,” Roy-Guay mentioned in an interview, confirming that SBQuantum’s technology underwent rigorous evaluations at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Goddard Space Flight Center. He noted that while there are no intellectual property sharing requirements for participating in the MagQuest challenge, SBQuantum is collaborating with Spire Global Inc., a Washington, D.C.-based satellite company, as a subcontractor.

Upon completion of the MagQuest Challenge, the NGA is expected to purchase the most successful technology, according to Roy-Guay.

Since its inception in 2017, SBQuantum has secured approximately $15 million in funding through various research and development contracts, grants, and tax credits from the federal government. This includes support from organizations like the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council and the Canadian startup program Creative Destruction Lab. The company is also preparing for its first venture-capital funding round.

Broader Applications and Future Goals

SBQuantum has already sold small quantities of its magnetometers and anticipates launching a public safety-focused product in 2026. The potential applications of its technology extend beyond space, with possibilities in mining surveys using drone-mounted quantum sensors and public safety measures such as screening at airports and schools.

Additionally, SBQuantum has developed “beyond-the-wall sensing capabilities,” which can detect moving metallic objects through barriers, a technology currently being deployed for the Canadian Special Forces.

Earlier this month, the Canadian government announced plans for $223 million in quantum research funding and $111 million for industry-focused initiatives under its new Defence Industrial Strategy. SBQuantum anticipates significant investments through various federally funded, quantum-focused programs.

The company also secured a contract with the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) last year to develop improved sensors for navigation, applicable to both space missions and mineral exploration in remote northern regions. The latest agreement with the ESA was supported by the CSA’s Space Technology Development Program, which is partially funded by Canada’s National Quantum Strategy launched in 2021.

SBQuantum’s advancements not only highlight the growing intersection of quantum technology with space exploration but also position the company as a key player in addressing significant environmental monitoring challenges.