TNO, in cooperation with Airbus Central Research and Technology, launched a new project called Qu-STAR to define the role of space in quantum information networks. Qu-STAR will have the added benefit of strengthening the position of the Netherlands in this emerging field, leveraging the country's strong expertise in quantum technology, free space optics, and photonics. This project emerged from a public-private partnership project supported by Holland High Tech in 2023.
The quantum internet, envisioned to connect quantum devices globally, currently faces distance limitations when relying exclusively on ground networks, restricting the exchange of quantum information to just a few hundred kilometers. Satellites present a promising solution to achieve global connectivity, yet the comprehensive architecture for a global quantum internet remains undefined.
Figurehead Marc Hendrikse is pleased is pleased with this development:
10 years ago, Holland High Tech started its structural support of the Dutch Quantum ecosystem, and we are very pleased to see that it has led successful, breakthrough innovations. The announcement today of the Qu-STAR cooperation between TNO and Airbus is an excellent example of the result of our efforts to support the creation of public private partnerships in this very promising field of Quantum technologies. It will further enhance the leading position that the Netherlands plays in Quantum, named as one of the 10 priorities of the National Technologies Strategy.
Kees Buijsrogge, director TNO Space said:
Our goal is to advance technologies and make a significant impact in achieving a global quantum internet. We believe that a collaborative, open approach will yield the best results, and welcome other organizations to join us in this initiative.’Ons doel is om de technologieën te ontwikkelen die de realisatie van een wereldwijd quantum-internet een stap dichterbij brengen. We geloven dat een gezamenlijke, open aanpak de beste resultaten gaat opleveren en verwelkomen andere organisaties om zich aan te sluiten bij dit initiatief.
Quantum internet enabled by space
Quantum computing holds the potential to tackle some of today's most significant challenges. To harness its full power, a network is needed that can link quantum devices around the world. Ground networks can only transmit quantum information over relatively short distances, making them insufficient for global connections. Satellites offer a promising solutions for achieving worldwide reach, but the design of a comprehensive global quantum internet is still missing.
Expertise
TNO will collaborate with Airbus Central Research and Technology to take up this task, aiming to define such a design. They will seek collaboration with stakeholders globally, in particular by contributing to the Quantum Internet Alliance and its recently launched Special Interest Group on Space. More broadly, the results of this will be openly accessible to the community.
TNO brings its extensive expertise in optics for laser satellite communications, quantum technology, and novel ICT (Information Communication Technology) infrastructures. Airbus, a key player in all pillars of quantum technology with a focus on aerospace applications, has developed advanced knowledge in ground-satellite optical and quantum communication links and quantum communication networks.
Qu-STAR is the direct follow-up of the letter of intent that Airbus and TNO signed last November at the Conférence Érasme Descartes in presence of the ambassadors of France and the Netherlands.
