Workshop on Quantum Satellite Network

6. - 7. March 2025
Palais Wertheim, Canovagsse 1a, 1010 Vienna, AT

The two-day event will showcase Austrian expertise in satellite communications whilst promoting international collaboration to shape the future of secure, long-distance quantum networks.

Organizer

  • European Space Agency (ESA)
  • Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG)
Event Partners:
  • Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT)
  • Quantum Technology Laboratories (qtlabs)

Content Description

Building the quantum networks of tomorrow

Current communication networks face inherent limitations in security, computing capability, and transmittable distance. Quantum networks offer a significant advancement, using fundamental physics principles to secure data transmission and enhance computing power.

Furthermore, space technology will prove essential in realising these quantum networks on a global scale. By using satellites at various altitudes - from low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), to geostationary orbit (GEO) - we can create networks that extend to even the furthest reaches of our world.

The Vienna symposium will explore several key areas:

  • Connected quantum computers:
    Finding ways to link powerful quantum computers across long distances
  • Network design:
    Planning the best orbit arrangement of satellites to create a global quantum network
  • Space technology:
    Testing new quantum devices on satellites and developing special ground stations to communicate with them
  • Real-world uses:
    Looking at how these quantum networks could be used to benefit society today

ESA's Optical and Quantum Communications – ScyLight programme

The workshop is part of ESA's broader initiatives in quantum communications through our Optical and Quantum Communications – ScyLight strategic programme line. Through ScyLight, ESA supports the research, development and utilisation of quantum technologies, for instance through the HydRON project for seamlessly integrating space assets into terrestrial communication networks. The programme is helping to build ultra-secure global networks by developing new quantum technologies and improving existing ones.

ScyLight maintains an "always open call" for industry-initiated ideas and developments, fostering innovation across the sector. Through supporting industry to develop and extend its manufacturing capabilities, the programme helps prepare European and Canadian industry stakeholders to seize emerging market opportunities in this field.

 

Program

The programme is currently being drafted; a preliminary overview is provided below.

From March 3 - 4, Quantum Safe Communication for Engineers training (external).

On 5 March 2025, the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG) is organising the 3rd Quantum to Market Networking Event (name tbc), which represents an opportunity to all ESA/FFG workshop attendees to get to know and network with key actors in the field in Austria.

Day One:  6 March 2025

  • 07:55 Registration
  • 09:00 Conference Start
    Welcome and Introductions
    Space Context State of the Art: Quantum Tech in space
  • 11:00 Coffee Break I
  • 11:30 Session 2
    Applications today State of the Art in QKD
  • 12:30 Lunch Break
  • 13:30 Session 3
    Quantum Technologies Sources
    Short Break
    Quantum Memories
  • 16:00 Coffee Break II
  • 16:30 Session 4
    Keynotes Session
  • 18:05 Closing and Reception
  • 18:15 End Day 1

Day Two: 7 March 2025

  • 08:05 Registration
  • 09:10 Conference Start
    Welcome and Session 5
    State of the Art Quantum Computation
  • 11:00 Coffee Break I
  • 11:30 Session 1
    Applications Quantum Computation
  • 12:30 Lunch Break
  • 13:30 Session 2
    Connecting Quantum System Interconnects
    Short Break
    Quantum Information Networks Architectures
  • 16:30 End

Target Audience

Global experts in quantum computing and satellite communications from academia, industry and research institutions are invited to join.

Participant Information

Online registration

Registration is required for all participants attending the Workshop on Quantum Information Networks for Secure Quantum Computing.

Registration Fee

Standard Registration € 75,-

The standard workshop registration fee includes:

  • Access to all sessions
  • Workshop lunch and refreshment breaks according to the scheduled programme
  • Social activity (Workshop Dinner)

Contact Address

ESA Conference Bureau
Keplerlaan 1
2201 AZ Noordwijk
Netherlands

Tel.: +31 (71) 565 5005
E-mail: esaconferencebureau@atpi.com