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Rydberg-atom RF Sensors for Direction Finding and Geolocation

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Air Force
Contract: FA8650-18-P-1123
Agency Tracking Number: F17A-028-0075
Amount: $149,935.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: STTR
Solicitation Topic Code: AF17A-T028
Solicitation Number: 2017.0
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2017
Award Year: 2018
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2017-10-26
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2018-06-30
Small Business Information
3030 Sterling Cir
Boulder, CO 80301
United States
DUNS: 800608643
HUBZone Owned: Yes
Woman Owned: Yes
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: Yes
Principal Investigator
 Daniel Farkas
 (303) 440-1284
 daniel.farkas@coldquanta.com
Business Contact
 Lisa Pendergast
Phone: (303) 440-1284
Email: lisa.pendergast@colquanta.com
Research Institution
 University of Colorado Boulder
 Jessica Rowell
 
572 UCB
Boulder, CO 80309
United States

 (303) 735-6299
 Nonprofit College or University
Abstract

ColdQuanta is partnering with Dr. Zoya Popovic at the University of Colorado, Boulder, to develop a three-dimensional quantum-enhanced radio-frequency (RF) signal sensor and direction finder. Our approach combine Rydberg-atom-based RF electrometry and discrete lens arrays (DLAs) of planar antennas. The DLA will serve as a Fourier optic for an incident wave, and a Rydberg-atom RF electrometer will measure the Fourier transform at the focal plane. The precision with which the direction of arrival can be determined depends foremost upon the spatial resolution with which the Fourier transform can be measured. In this regard, Rydberg-atom RF electrometry offers significant benefits over receivers based on antennas, including improved sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio, sub-wavelength resolution, and accuracy that is determined by atomic structure.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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