CARIOQA Quantum Pathfinder Mission for space weather research

Abstract

The CARIOQA Quantum Pathfinder missions aims at demonstrating a quantum technology-based accelerometer in space as a precursor for a later deployment onboard a satellite gravimetry mission. A dedicated satellite will be launched for the Pathfinder mission in 2030 to raise the technology level of the required technologies for applications on operational missions. The Phase A study to investigate the feasibility of this mission has just concluded and the project will continue into Phase B. In this presentation, we discuss the relationship between available models of the atmospheric conditions in low Earth orbit and the instrument and satellite design as well as the impact on the development of requirements to fulfil the mission objectives. In addition to the demonstration of the functionality of the quantum accelerometer, the Pathfinder mission will also provide accelerometer measurements in low Earth orbit for the expected mission lifetime of three years. As a scientific objective of the mission, this dataset will be used to derive parameters like thermosphere density or atmospheric crosswinds.