Quantum Sensing Analyzer

SBIR · Phase: BOTH · Topic DAF27BZ02-NV014 · Solicitation 27.BZ

The “Quantum Sensing Analyzer” project aims to address critical limitations in existing electromagnetic measurement technologies by developing a novel quantum-based sensing capability utilizing Rydberg atomic sensors. These sensors, leveraging quantum properties, exhibit extraordinary sensitivity and accuracy over a widespread frequency spectrum ranging from DC to 1 THz, with potential scalability to even broader ranges. This initiative is designed to modernize and standardize test and evaluation processes within the Department of Defense (DoD), particularly benefiting the Benefield Anechoic Facility (BAF) and its mission to support advanced electromagnetic system testing. Problem Statement and Opportunity: Current electromagnetic measurement techniques rely on diverse and complex instruments, which introduce inefficiencies, inconsistencies, and increased costs for the acquisition, testing, and integration of modern radar systems, electronic warfare platforms, communication systems, and antennas. These existing systems also face challenges in maintaining accuracy and repeatability, particularly when evaluating performance across a wide range of radio frequencies or within controlled environments like anechoic chambers. The introduction of Rydberg sensor technology represents a disruptive opportunity to establish a universal, high-precision, SI-traceable standard for electromagnetic measurements. By adopting a single, compact, and adaptable sensor for diverse measurement tasks—including spectrum analysis, field strength monitoring, and chamber characterization—this capability promises to significantly reduce infrastructure requirements, simplify operational workflows, and enhance confidence in test data accuracy. Project Objectives: Develop and validate a proof-of-concept Rydberg-based quantum sensing system capable of performing highly accurate and repeatable electromagnetic measurements across 1.5 MHz to 40 GHz. Demonstrate the ability of the sensor to serve as a universal measurement standard for radar, electronic warfare, communication systems, and antenna evaluation. Establish enhanced chamber characterization capabilities, including electromagnetic leakage detection, direction finding, near-field measurement, reflection mitigation, and quiet zone mapping, to improve the testing environment quality. Progress the technology readiness level (TRL) from TRL 2 at project initiation to TRL 6 by the conclusion of Phase II. Required Efforts and Phase Activities: Phase I: Perform a comprehensive feasibility study to assess the applicability of Rydberg atomic sensors as a universal electromagnetic measurement standard. Evaluate the sensors’ technical attributes, including sensitivity (targeting sub-microvolt/meter thresholds), dynamic range, and bandwidth. Identify potential integration challenges with existing test facilities and systems, particularly those used in the BAF. Deliverables: Feasibility study report detailing technical analyses, identified challenges, and potential solutions; preliminary system design for a prototype quantum sensing analyzer. Phase II: Develop, fabricate, and demonstrate a functional prototype of the Rydberg-based quantum sensing system, incorporating key findings from Phase I. Conduct extensive testing and validation of the prototype in operationally relevant environments, including the BAF, with emphasis on precision, SI-traceability, and repeatability of electromagnetic measurements. Integrate the system into existing DoD testing workflows, showcasing improvements in efficiency, reduced equipment requirements, and testing performance. Deliverables: Fully operational prototype, detailed test and evaluation report, system integration plan, and transition strategy for scaling and deployment within the DoD. Desired Outcome: The successful development of a Quantum Sensing Analyzer will revolutionize the DoD’s electromagnetic measurement and testing capabilities by delivering a single, universal, quantum…

SBIR/STTR 은 미국 중소기업만 지원할 수 있습니다(Small Business Act 법정 요건). • 계열사를 포함해 상시 종업원 500명 이하 • 미국 시민 또는 영주권자 1인 이상이 50%를 초과해 직접 소유·지배 • 미국 내 사업장을 두고 주로 미국 내에서 사업을 영위할 것 • 수행책임자(PI)의 주된 근무처가 신청 기업일 것 출처: https://www.sbir.gov/faq/eligibility-requirements

Primary country

🇺🇸 United States

Also eligible

None

Foreign companies

No

Local entity

Required

Location condition

미국 내 사업장을 두고 미국 시민·영주권자가 50%를 초과해 소유한 중소기업만 신청할 수 있습니다(법정 요건).

Document requirements were not captured (needs verification). Check the official announcement.

Application process not captured.

Evaluation process not captured.

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Official URL

https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/

Application URL

https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/

Last fetched

2026.11.06

Human review

Not reviewed — check the official announcement

First seen

2026.11.06

Data status

Auto-collected, not reviewed

AI enrichment

Needs verification