The Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has initiated the Optical-Atomic System Integration & Calibration (OASIC) program, a Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) effort, to address the protracted transition of quantum technologies from research to practical application. The program aims to establish a network of modular, fee-based quantum testbeds located in Boston, Ann Arbor, and Boulder/Pleasanton, enabling rapid evaluation and certification of quantum components – specifically qubits, sensors, and atomic clocks – developed by small businesses and universities. These facilities will offer independent verification of performance, streamlining technology assessment for both commercial and defense sector adoption, with teams currently building the testbeds following selection in early 2024.
DARPA initiates the Optical-Atomic System Integration & Calibration (OASIC) program to address critical gaps in independent verification and accessible testing infrastructure for burgeoning quantum technologies. The program establishes dedicated testbeds for qubits, quantum sensors, and atomic clocks, prioritising commercial viability and broad access for researchers and developers. OASIC actively seeks opportunities to collaborate with international partners, fostering a global network of quantum technology innovation.
University partners contribute their deep expertise in quantum physics, materials science, and advanced instrumentation, providing the foundational knowledge and research capabilities necessary for characterising quantum systems. Small businesses bring their agility, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit, translating research findings into commercially viable products and services. This collaborative approach ensures strong commercialisation plans and a customer-focused mindset, leveraging a Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) structure.
Each testbed incorporates modularity and reconfigurability, enabling researchers to quickly adapt setups for testing different quantum devices, control systems, and measurement techniques. Standardisation plays a crucial role, ensuring compatibility and interoperability between components and subsystems. The testbeds will support a wide range of quantum technologies, including superconducting qubits, trapped ions, photonic quantum systems, and quantum sensors.
The core design philosophy of OASIC centres on creating adaptable facilities capable of accommodating evolving technologies and diverse experimental setups. These testbeds will not become obsolete with advancements in quantum hardware and software, but rather will evolve alongside them, providing a long-term resource for the quantum community. The program invests in the development of advanced characterisation tools and techniques, enabling researchers to gain deeper insights into the behaviour of quantum systems.
OASIC anticipates the testbeds will serve as a central hub for identifying and resolving critical component limitations, driving innovation in areas such as high-speed optical modulators and low-noise amplifiers. This collaborative environment fosters knowledge sharing and accelerates the pace of innovation. OASIC actively promotes knowledge sharing and collaboration between researchers, developers, and industry stakeholders, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation.
The long-term vision of OASIC extends beyond simply providing testing facilities, aiming to establish a network of resources comparable to established university-affiliated research centres. This includes streamlined processes for accessing testing support, standardised contracts, transparent pricing structures, and dedicated personnel to assist users with experimental design and data analysis. The program actively engages with industry stakeholders, identifying their needs and tailoring its capabilities to meet those needs.
OASIC fosters a culture of continuous improvement, regularly evaluating its capabilities and adapting its strategies to maximise its impact. The program actively solicits feedback and incorporates it into its development process. OASIC emphasises the importance of sustainability, implementing environmentally responsible practices in its operations. OASIC promotes the development of a skilled workforce in quantum technology, supporting training programs and educational initiatives. The program facilitates workshops, conferences, and training programs to disseminate best practices and accelerate the adoption of new technologies.
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