Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi), a company specializing in quantum optics and nanophononics technology, has been awarded a fourth project from NASA. QCi is unique in its ability to use Entropy Quantum Computing (EQC) to denoise LiDAR spectral information. This project, already underway, involves providing a new method to remove sunlight noise from LiDAR spectral mapping in lower earth orbit.
This technology will allow NASA to measure the unique physical properties of clouds and aerosols effectively and affordably, preparing for space missions at any time of day. The EQC method is superior to traditional noise reduction methods that require larger lasers and restrictive bandwidth filtering, which are more costly in terms of size, weight, power, and cost.
QCi’s CEO, Dr. William McGann, expressed excitement about the project, stating that it showcases the generalized use of entropy quantum computing for signal-to-noise enhancement in a wide range of important spectral sensing measurements. This work aligns with QCi’s upcoming launch of the Dirac-3, a high-dimensional Entropy Quantum Machine expected to offer significant performance improvements.
NASA’s continued engagement with QCi fosters a partnership for leveraging QCi’s innovation in photonics. The federal government has invested over $75 million in enhanced LiDAR sensing technologies in lower earth orbit since 2018 and plans to continue doing so. The current award is executed via the Research, Science, and Engineering Services (RSES) contract at NASA Langley Research Center, with Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) supporting the full range of technology readiness levels from fundamental research through flight-rated hardware design and development.
Additional information is available in a press release provided by QCI which is available here.
February 14, 2024
