CSMC Labs Secures Luxembourg Space Agency Contract for Quantum Sensing

November 24th, 2024

CSMC Labs Inc., the quantum and advanced sensing subsidiary of Canadian Strategic Mission Corporation (CSMC), has secured a contract with the Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA) to develop a novel space-based quantum gravimetry system known as QASM, the Quantum Anomaly Subsurface Mapper.

The contract marks an important milestone for CSMC Labs and positions the company at the forefront of next-generation space-based sensing technologies with applications spanning resource exploration, national security, and space infrastructure.

Quantum Gravimetry from Orbit

QASM is a breakthrough dual-use sensing platform designed to detect and characterize subsurface resources, including critical minerals and water, from Earth and other planetary bodies. The system uses cold-atom interferometry to achieve ultra-sensitive gravity measurements, achieving significantly greater precision compared to conventional subsurface mapping methods.

Developed as an opaque, space-based quantum gravimetry sensor, QASM directly addresses one of the most persistent challenges in resource exploration: locating subsurface deposits that are difficult, time-consuming, and costly to identify. By significantly improving detection accuracy, QASM has the potential to reduce exploration risk, shorten timelines, and support more intelligent and sustainable resource management.

Strengthening Canada–EU Cooperation and the New Space Economy

The project represents a major milestone in EU–Canada cooperation, integrating Canadian quantum innovation with European technical leadership through collaboration with the Luxembourg Space Agency and the European Space Agency (ESA). It highlights the strength of transatlantic partnerships in advancing advanced space and sensing technologies.

QASM's initial laboratory phase is scheduled to begin in 2026, positioning CSMC to support future sustainable human and industrial activity beyond Earth, while also addressing pressing resource challenges on Earth. Applications include national security, environmental monitoring, critical mineral exploration, and long-term space exploration infrastructure.

The project further reflects CSMC's diversified approach within the New Space sector, pursuing near-term commercial opportunities while building long-term capabilities for space exploration. Through CSMC Labs, the company continues to expand Canada's quantum advantage, delivering advanced sensing solutions that combine scientific innovation with practical, high-impact applications across the Earth and the solar system.