SBQuantum, a Canadian quantum sensing company, has been awarded a new contract by the European Space Agency (ESA), valued at nearly $1 million USD (€800,000). The funding, provided through ESA’s FutureEO Programme, is for SBQuantum to deliver an advanced prototype of its quantum magnetometer sensor, specifically optimized for Earth Observation (EO) missions in space.
The quantum magnetometer utilizes a diamond-based technology capable of providing accurate readings from space. The prototype is required to remain the same size and weight as the initial design while delivering enhanced capabilities, including improved sensitivity (sub 100 Picotesla), higher bandwidth (400 Hz), and greater accuracy (200 Picotesla). These metrics are necessary for monitoring critical climate data, such as fluctuating ocean currents and temperatures, and changes to Earth’s magnetic field.
This marks SBQuantum’s second contract with ESA and builds on its status as one of three finalists in the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s (NGA) MagQuest Challenge. The ability to deploy these miniaturized sensors on small cube satellites at a nominal cost is intended to make precise geophysical data easily accessible.
The contract was awarded through a competitive tender and represents a step in the growing trend of adapting quantum technologies for spaceborne missions. The undertaking is also supported by the Canadian Space Agency’s Space Technology Development Program (STDP), aligning with Canada’s National Quantum Strategy.
Read the full announcement here.
November 13, 2025
