Advancements in Non-GPS Navigation Funded by DoD

California-based startup Vector Atomic, in collaboration with Honeywell Aerospace, has developed a cutting-edge navigation sensor funded by the Pentagon's Defense Innovation Unit. The sensor, which utilizes an atomic clock for precise measurements without relying on GPS, has been delivered and is awaiting a ride to space. The goal of the project is to determine if atomic sensors can be made robust enough for real-world deployment, with the space environment serving as the ultimate test. The technology has the potential to improve accuracy and eliminate drift over time, making it desirable for military applications.