Embedded control software for OSCAR-QUBE sensor: subsystem control and data acquisition synchronization

Abstract

The field of quantum sensing technology has become a rapidly growing branch, opening new possibilities that allow higher sensitivity and precision than ever reached before. This new emerging technology allows for applications such as high-precision brain scans and mineral mining. These advancements will change our understanding of the world with all the new possible discoveries. For this, the quantum sensor relies on the nitrogen-vacancies (NV) center, which is an opto-magnetic defect in the diamond's crystalline lattice.

A power board for this sensor is designed which contains the power distribution and a microcontroller that operates the quantum sensor. The sensor is capable of measuring at a range between 40 Hz - 1.3KHz in a various amount of operational modes, with each measurement containing all data and sensor parameter values. The usage of a Real-Time Operating System allows the parameters of the sensor to be dynamically changed while sending and receiving telemetry data. This allows for real-time storage and post-processing of the magnetic field data. Furthermore, the software and hardware is integrated into the OSCAR-QUBE project which is part of "Orbit Your Thesis!" Programme by European Space Agency. Within this program, the sensor will fly to the International Space Station where it will do measurements for four months onboard the Columbus module. System tests conclude that the embedded software is capable of operating the sensor and that the designed hardware passed all required functional tests.