Space-based quantum sensing project announced for resource exploration

On November 24, 2025, in Toronto, Canadian Space Mining Corporation (CSMC) announced it has been awarded a contract by the Luxembourg Space Agency to develop a novel space-based quantum gravimetry sensor system. The system, called QASM (Quantum Atomic Subsurface Mapper), is intended to advance quantum sensing for resource exploration.

QASM is a breakthrough dual-use sensing platform designed to detect and characterize subsurface resources such as critical minerals and water from orbit on the Earth and other planetary bodies. The project represents a major milestone in EU–Canada cooperation on quantum technologies for space exploration, integrating Canadian innovation with European technical and institutional leadership.

"Luxembourg has long been committed to building international partnerships that accelerate sustainable space exploration," said Bob Lamboray, Senior Manager – Exploration and Space Resources at the Luxembourg Space Agency. "Through collaboration with CSMC and ESA, we are combining Europe's and Canada's strengths in quantum research, resource science, and commercial space development."

"This project is another example of our commitment to growing Canada's Quantum advantage. Quantum sensors like QASM will redefine how we can more intelligently meet society's resource needs," said Daniel Sax, CEO of CSMC. "QASM has the potential to revolutionize how we detect critical minerals, water, and other things below the surface, which is still today a bit of needle in a haystack. We are extremely grateful for the support of LSA and ESA on this. This collaboration demonstrates the power of transatlantic innovation."

Developed in Canada, QASM will use cold-atom interferometry to achieve ultra-sensitive gravity measurements. These capabilities are essential for identifying resources below the surface of the earth, applicable to humanity's pressing resource challenges, increasing our ability to detect natural resources with greater efficacy, saving both time and money.

Early laboratory demonstrations of the QASM system are scheduled for 2026, with field testing and validation to follow, paving the way for a potential in space demonstrations in the next few years.

This initiative complements CSMC's broader technology portfolio, including its LEUNR (Low Enriched Uranium Nuclear Reactor) -- a dual-use microreactor designed for lunar and terrestrial deployment -- as part of a growing suite of infrastructure technologies enabling sustainable human presence beyond Earth.