S3 – Quantum Techonologies in Space – Master in Astrophysics and Space Science

Univ. Bremen Prof. Dr. Meike List, PD Dr. Sven Herrmann, Prof. Dr. Claus Lämmerzahl	Quantum Technologies in Space (S3, elective, 3 ECTS)
Learning Outcomes:	basic understanding of operating principles of quantum sensors, atomic clocks and other quantum technologies, understanding the quantum advantage of these instruments, understanding the specific benefit of space-based operation, as well as of boundary conditions in space-based operation
Knowledge and Understanding:	understanding of operating principles of quantum sensors, atomic clocks and other quantum technologies understanding the quantum advantage of these instruments, understanding the specific benefit of space-based operation, as well as of boundary conditions in space-based operation
Applying Knowledge and Understanding:
Prerequisites	Quantum mechanics basic course
Program	Overview of quantum technologies with application in space. This requires a short repetition of the postulates of quantum mechanics in particular of the measurement process with its statistical interpretation atomic physics, atomic energy level structures, atom light interaction The technologies include laser cooling laser sources and technology neutral atom traps evaporative cooling atom interferometry ion traps and atomic clocks quantum key distribution Each of these are presented in some detail. Finally, the space condition and operation will be discussed exploiting large gravitational potential differences and microgravity technical boundaries of quantum experiments on space-based platforms: operations, automization, data management
Description of how the course is conducted	Lecture with slides and on blackboard – Contact hours (lecture + exercise): 28 h – Preparation, learning, exercises: 34 h – Preparation for exam: 28 h Total working hours:90 h
Description of the didactic methods
Description of the evaluation methods	Written exam
Adopted Textbooks	Christopher J. Foot “Atomic Physics”
Recommended readings	Bongs, K., Holynski, M., Vovrosh, J. et al. Taking atom interferometric quantum sensors from the laboratory to real-world applications. Nat Rev Phys 1, 731–739 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s42254-019-0117-4