About the project

The main goals

QUDICE is aimed at the creation and development of components and subsystems for space-based QKD satellite communication network. The project also seeks to create the testbeds to evaluate the components of quantum satellite communications technology as well as the tools required to simulate and monitor space quantum information networks.

The long-term goal of QUDICE is to assist in the creation of a European satellite network with QKD serving as the primary service.

The Specific Objectives

Every partner has also contributed to the QUANGO project, which was launched in January 2021. The primary goal of QUANGO is the creation of a network of 12 Unit-CubeSat LEO satellites to provide integrated capabilities for communication protected by QKD and for a 5G connection as well as the development of payloads, sub-systems, and ground stations at the breadboard level (TRL4).

QUDICE aims at increasing the TRL of essential devices for the realization of quantum communication satellites devised at QUANGO.

A visual concept

How are quantum communications integrated into space? This video gives you a brief overview of how QKD systems can be integrated into payloads in low earth orbit (LEO) and serves as links for secure communications worldwide

Approach

QUDICE will work on 2 different approaches to integrate the technology into space based satellites in Low Earth Orbits.

Sequential Rendevous

Entangled Photon Source Rendevous

Structure

The achievements of QUDICE will be possible due to a synergy of different expertise, provided by academic groups and industrial partners. The work plan will be divided into 6 Work Packages (WP) for the proper execution of the project and the achievement of the goals in a timely manner.

Design & Simulation

WP1 Design & Simulation will address the simulations and design of the various subsystems.

Subsystem manufacturing

WP2 Subsystem manufacturing will address the realization of the different subsystems

Testing

WP3 Testing will address the creation and execution of the tests necessary to reach TRL5–6 for the various subsystems

Exploitation

WP4 Exploitation will focus on the exploitation of the findings, including the development of IOV mission designs and roadmaps for integrating the payload onto satellites.

Dissemination

WP5 Dissemination is committed to spreading and communicating the project’s findings to the largest possible audience, including academic institutions, businesses, clients, and the general public, in order to generate interest in space quantum communications.

Management

WP6 Management will address the managing of the whole project, the reporting, the financial aspects, and the communication flow between the partners and with the EU.

Results and Impacts

Expected Results

  • Development of key subcomponents for Space Quantum Communication

  • Evaluation of their performances in QKD protocols

  • Roadmap towards high level of technology readiness

  • Integration into operative satellites

  • Training of a new generation of scientists and engineers with complementary competences from long-tradition academic partners and companies

Expected Impacts

Scientific/Technical

  • Strengthening EU independence and increasing the EU’s competitiveness in the space industry

  • creation of new important satellite QKD devices;

  • support for dependable, secure, and affordable satellite communications services

Industrial

  • Strengthening Europe’s position as a global leader in long-distance free-space quantum communication technologies.

  • Establishing a European quantum communication ecosystem.

Social

  • Achieving a safe and secure society in which data is protected from potential attacks while being transported.