NASA Team Achieves Quantum Physics Breakthrough in Space, Led by Moroccan Scientist

The new breakthrough that makes it possible to study the smallest atoms in the coldest possible environment is an important milestone in fundamental physics. In doing so, Kamal Oudrhiri’s team paves the way for scientific research in various important fields in physics such as the nature of quantum gravity, dark matter and dark energy. These studies also concern gravitational waves, as well as more practical applications such as the navigation of spacecraft and the prospecting of underground minerals on other planets.

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) plans to honor the Cold Atom Lab team with the 2020 Space Science Award at a conference next November, in recognition of the work led by the Moroccan scientist.

In addition, the team was congratulated for the "demonstrated leadership in innovative scientific investigations associated with space science missions" at the end of its work "for the development and delivery of the highly innovative cold atom laboratory to the ISS and for pioneering scientific achievements."

For Kamal Oudrhiri, who has been with NASA for 20 years, this upgrade has made it possible to replace the heart of the Cold Atom Lab.

It should be noted that the Moroccan has played a key role in multiple missions, including those related to Mars exploration vehicles ("Curiosity Rovers", "Spirit" and "Opportunity") as well as international missions "Cassini" for the planet Saturn, "Grail" for the moon and "Juno" for Jupiter.