Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) has been awarded a fourth project from NASA to improve LiDAR spectral mapping in lower earth orbit. QCi’s technology, Entropy Quantum Computing (EQC), will be used to remove sunlight noise from the mapping, providing a more efficient and cost-effective method for NASA to measure the physical properties of clouds and aerosols. This aligns with QCi’s upcoming launch of the Dirac-3, a high-dimensional Entropy Quantum Machine. The project is part of a federal investment of over $75 million in enhanced LiDAR technologies since 2018. The contract is executed via Analytical Mechanics Associates on behalf of NASA.
Quantum Computing Inc. Secures Fourth NASA Project
Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi), a company specializing in quantum optics and nanophononics technology, has recently announced the acquisition of a fourth project from NASA. QCi is unique in its ability to apply Entropy Quantum Computing (EQC) to the task of denoising LiDAR spectral information. This capability has led Analytical Mechanics Associates, acting on behalf of NASA, to select QCi to develop a new method for eliminating sunlight noise from LiDAR spectral mapping in lower earth orbit.
The Potential of EQC in LiDAR Spectral Mapping
The proposed technology improvement could provide NASA with a cost-effective and efficient way to measure the distinct physical properties of clouds and aerosols in preparation for space missions at any time of day. The use of EQC for denoising LiDAR spectral information presents a superior alternative to traditional noise reduction methods, which necessitate a larger laser and restrictive bandwidth filtering. These conventional methods demand greater size, weight, power, and cost compared to the EQC approach.
The Impact of QCi’s Involvement and Future Prospects
QCi’s involvement in this project has already begun, generating revenue immediately. Dr. William McGann, QCi’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed his excitement about the project, stating that it demonstrates the broad applicability of entropy quantum computing for signal-to-noise enhancement. This applies not only to generalized LiDAR applications, but also to a wide array of crucial spectral sensing measurements. The project aligns well with QCi’s upcoming launch of the Dirac-3, a new high-dimensional Entropy Quantum Machine, which is expected to offer significant performance improvements in speed, resolution, and overall performance compared to other competing technologies.
NASA’s Investment in Enhanced LiDAR Sensing Technologies
NASA’s ongoing collaboration with QCi contributes to a partnership aimed at harnessing QCi’s innovative photonics technology. A recent report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) revealed that the federal government has invested over $75 million in enhanced LiDAR sensing technologies in lower earth orbit since 2018, with plans to continue this investment. The current award is implemented through the Research, Science, and Engineering Services (RSES) contract at NASA Langley Research Center. Under the RSES contract, the Prime Contractor, Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA), supports all technology readiness levels, from fundamental research to flight-rated hardware design and development.
About Quantum Computing Inc. and Analytical Mechanics Associates
Quantum Computing Inc. is a pioneering integrated photonics company that offers accessible and affordable quantum machines. QCi’s products are designed to operate at room temperature and low power at a reasonable cost. The company’s portfolio of core technology and products provides unique capabilities in high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and remote sensing applications.
Analytical Mechanics Associates, Inc., established in 1962, collaborates with government and commercial organizations to solve complex engineering, science, math, and business problems. AMA combines engineering, science, and mathematics capabilities with the latest in analytics, information technology, and visualization to create innovative solutions.
