Quantum Clock Synchronization

Quantum clock synchronization (QCS) uses quantum communications to accurately and securely transfer time over long distances. Using this new technology with SQT’s heritage entangled photon sources, time transfer over long distances is possible within picosecond level accuracy. And because QCS utilizes the inherent security with entangled photons, this time transfer signal cannot be spoofed. Using QCS, time transfer can occur between any two objects that have a clear spatial link. One application: increased clock accuracy for satellites outside the LEO orbit that cannot receive GPS timing signals (ref. subtopic Z8.02). Another application: secure and unspoofable time transfer for satellites, aircraft and ground stations in a GPS-denied environment (ref. subtopics S1.02 and A2.02). Speqtral Quantum Technologies, Inc. (SQT) is proposing a Phase I study of the QCS design that could eventually be turned into a demonstration mission using SQT’s heritage entangled photon sources. The current design of this source was demonstrated on the SpooQy-1 3U cubesat last year, making SQT the only company outside of China with space heritage.

Application 1: increased clock accuracy for satellites outside the LEO orbit that cannot receive GPS timing signals (ref. subtopic Z8.02) Application 2: secure and unspoofable clock synchronization for satellites and ground stations in a GPS-denied environment (ref. subtopics S1.02 and A2.02). Application 3: very accurate clock synchronization for satellites that need precision position, navigation or timing (PNT)

Accurate timing is critical for numerous non-NASA applications, including data fusion tasks, synchronization of communication networks, accurate positioning of rapidly moving objects, and accurate time resolution for global market transactions. This benefits financial institutions, science organizations, Autonomous Driving, Aviation, Marine, Location based services (LBS), and Surveyors.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.