OUR GOAL IS TO HARNESS THE POWER OF QUANTUM SENSING FOR NEXT-GENERATION EARTH OBSERVATION FROM SPACE.

Research Areas

Our research spans atomic physics, aerospace systems engineering, and photonics, integrating quantum interferometry, chipscale photonics, machine learning, and novel mission design concepts to deliver TRL-3 high-performance quantum sensors for spaceflight.

Quantum Remote Sensing for Earth Observation

Quantum Remote Sensing for Earth Observation

At Quantum Pathways Institute (QPI), our research in quantum remote sensing merges advanced physics with space technology to redefine how Earth’s mass and gravity changes are measured. In response to NASA’s call for the exploitation of breakthroughs in cutting-edge technologies with the potential of revolutionizing future aerospace capabilities, we are advancing quantum sensing as the foundation for a new era of precision and insight in satellite gravimetry.

Read More
QPI Research Objectives (ROs)

QPI Research Objectives (ROs)

The Institute's research is organized into three interconnected groups, each critical to the advancement of quantum sensing for space. These areas - Atomic Physics, Aerospace Systems Engineering, and Photonics are deeply interdependent, predicated on synergetic advances in both applied physics and engineering.

Read More
From Laboratory Innovation to Spaceflight Readiness

From Laboratory Innovation to Spaceflight Readiness

Our Lab to Flight research focuses on advancing quantum technologies from experimental concepts to space-ready systems. We aim to develop a high-precision instrument designed for greater sensitivity and efficiency while minimizing size, weight, and power to meet the demands of future space missions.

Read More

Team

Srinivas Bettadpur (PI)
Srinivas Bettadpur (PI)
ASE/EM and Center for Space Research
Murray Holland
Murray Holland
ECE and Microelectronics Research Center
Seth Bank
Seth Bank
ECE and Microelectronics Research Center
Catie LeDesma
Catie LeDesma
ECE and Microelectronics Research Center
Dana Z Anderson
Dana Z Anderson
ECE and Microelectronics Research Center
Penina Axelrad
Penina Axelrad
ECE and Microelectronics Research Center
Marco Nicotra
Marco Nicotra
Quantum Optimal Control (RO.1 & RO.2)
Dan Blumenthal
Dan Blumenthal
Photonics Devices & Functions (RO.1 & RO.3)
ECE and OCAQπ
Daniel Wasserman
Daniel Wasserman
ECE and Microelectronics Research Center
Ufuk Topcu
Ufuk Topcu
ASE/EM and Center for Space Research
Michael Watkins
Michael Watkins
ASE/EM and Center for Space Research
Michelle Stephens
Michelle Stephens
ECE and Microelectronics Research Center

About Quantum Pathways Institute

The Quantum Pathways Institute is a Space Technology Research Institute sponsored by NASA Space Technology Mission Directorate and led by the University of Texas at Austin. We advance next-generation Earth Observation science by harnessing quantum technologies to measure mass changes from space with unprecedented precision and resolution.