Project R-16397

Belgian Light-Induced astrochemistry study using (Nano)diamond-based Quantum sensors (OSCAR-BLINQ) (Research)

Exploiting the microgravity environment of the ISS, this project aims at advanced application of diamond-based quantum magnetometry in space, building upon the quantum sensing platform developed during the OSCAR-QUBE project. Astrochemistry plays an important role in understanding chemical reactions in space, this experiment will focus on monitoring photosensitive redox and pH- change reactions using T1/T2 relaxometry with the objective to explore the fundamentals of molecular dynamics of these reactions in microgravity, using both bulk and nano-diamonds. Besides astrochemistry, the final platform has potential applications for future space exploration and terrestrial fields such as pharmacology and materials science. The project will result in Belgian national payload operating onboard the ISS for duration of 3-6 months. The experiment is a collaborative effort across Flanders, Wallonia, and Belgium's federal parts with the additional aim of inspiring the next generation of space engineers and quantum researchers.

01 July 2025 - 30 June 2027