Quantum Pathways Institute
The Quantum Pathways Institute is a NASA Space Technology Research Institute across multiple U.S. research institutions and led by the Center for Space Research at the University of Texas at Austin. We advance next-generation Earth Observation science by harnessing quantum technologies to measure mass changes from space with unprecedented precision and resolution.
Our Mission
Our mission is to pioneer transformative quantum sensing technologies that enhance how we observe and understand our planet.
- Space Technology Research Institute sponsored by NASA-STMD
- Led by the Center for Space Research at UT Austin
- Collaborative team across leading U.S. universities and NIST
- Systems-level advancement toward TRL 3+ for space-ready quantum sensors
- Research spanning atomic physics, aerospace systems
engineering, and photonics for spaceflight
Academic Collaboration
QPI brings together a consortium of world-class research institutions to push the boundaries of quantum innovation. Our leadership includes the UT Center for Space Research, working in partnership with the Microelectronics Research Center, the Oden Institute, JILA, Smead Aerospace, CCAR, CU Boulder, Caltech’s GALCIT, OCAQπ, UC Santa Barbara and the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Research Focus
We address applied research challenges across multiple disciplines. From inertial sensing at the femto-meter/s² scale to advanced photonic integration, QPI is dedicated to building the foundations of tomorrow’s space-based quantum technologies.
Why an Institute
QPI was founded to coordinate research across diverse scientific and engineering disciplines, while also fostering education, workforce training, and industry engagement. By aligning innovation with training and outreach, we ensure that the benefits of quantum technologies extend far beyond the laboratory and into future generations of discovery.
