Quantum Phase Unwrapping

Phase unwrapping is a mathematical operation that converts the observed wrapped (-π to π) interferometric phase values to unwrapped geophysical observations (i.e. topographic height (m); ground deformation (m/yr) etc.). In this study; we propose to implement quantum phase unwrapping algorithms in QCI's Qatalyst python environment to take advantage of QCIs Dirac3 solvers. Dirac3 machines are 9x more capable than the state-of-the-art quantum phase unwrapping demonstrations. We will also attempt to develop a multi-grid phase unwrapping algorithm to demonstrate quantum utility by unwrapping a full-scale dataset faster/more accurately than a classical unwrapping algorithm.

Missions like NISAR will generate more interferometric SAR data than any other past mission. Phase unwrapping is mathematically classified amongst the NP-hard problems; and even though they are solveable; algorithms implemented on classical computers require exponential time. Using the quantum solvers; it is possible to speed-up the phase unwrapping without poorly affecting the solution accuracy. In this effort; we are working to demonstrate quantum utility by delivering a performance beyond what's possible with classical computers.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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