ERI: A Portable Wideband Rydberg Atom-Based Quantum Antenna for HF/VHF Communications

NSF Award Search · 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $200,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This project aims to make wireless communications much more efficient and accessible by creating a new kind of antenna. Instead of using traditional metal antennas which are large, heavy, and limited in how small they can be, the project team will use a special quantum technology based on atoms called Rydberg atoms. These quantum antennas can be made much smaller (e.g., about 7 cm compared to 25 meters for conventional outdoor antennas operating in the 3 MHz to 30 MHz band) and are more sensitive, meaning they can pick up weaker signals and work across a wider range of frequencies. This innovative approach has significant potential societal and national benefits by improving critical wireless communication links for emergency response, search-and-rescue operations, and navigation, especially in places where reliable connections are needed but hard to achieve. The project also supports national priorities in quantum technology and will help train students from diverse backgrounds in cutting-edge science. Outreach activities of the project include creating educational materials for young learners, showcasing research results in outreach events, and exploring collaboration with industry to ensure the benefits reach beyond the university to the wider community and industry. The research will use Rydberg atoms (atoms with electrons in very high energy levels) to sense radio signals in the high frequency (HF, 3 MHz to 30 MHz) and very high frequency (VHF, 30 MHz to 300 MHz) bands. The research is organized into two main tasks: (1) investigating the quantum theory of Rydberg atoms, including energy level transitions, electromagnetically induced transparency, and Autler-Townes splitting, and (2) designing and experimentally validating a portable wideband quantum sensor for HF/VHF signal reception. The approach involves theoretical modeling, numerical simulations, and experimental assembly of optical components and vapor cells, with the goal of achieving an instantaneous

Key facts

NSF award ID
2552884
Awardee
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SD)
SAM.gov UEI
CJAJYT2KW771
PI
Kai Ren
Primary program
01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Antennas and Electromagnetics, QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
Estimated total
$200,000
Funds obligated
$200,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
05/15/2026 → 04/30/2028