Research projects

The goal of QuTechSpace is to push the development of key components for space quantum communication and to facilitate standardization of the technology. To this end, we will advance three core technology components: entangled photon source (EPS), prepare and measure (P&M) source, and the post-processing software for the QKD protocol. In particular, we will increase the performance parameters such as sending rates, reduce the size, weight, and power consumption (SWaP), and perform space qualification of hardware. The technology development will be accompanied by facilitating the standardization process of space quantum communication technologies and systems through active involvement in standardization bodies. By including European entities ranging from academics over new space companies and quantum technology developers to large system integrators, the joint European ecosystem will be included in the process and together we will work towards the joint goal of reaching European sovereignty in space quantum technologies. QuTechSpace will also take into account developments in the field of space quantum communication. The technology development will be completed through testing in relevant environment, reaching TRL 6. Furthermore, the different technology components will be tested together in an end-to-end implementation of the quantum chain in the laboratory, providing crucial insights into the heart of space-based quantum-communication systems. Finally, it is important to highlight that the developed components can be used for quantum key distribution as well as for realization of the quantum internet. QuTechSpace will conclude by giving an outlook and recommendations for future developments and implementations of quantum-communication systems.