Quantum Cryptography Satellite Gets 2024 Launch Date
A consortium of 20 European companies led by Luxembourg-based satellite telecommunications network provider SES SA, with support from the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Commission, will design, develop, launch, and operate a satellite system that will enable secure quantum key distribution (QKD) based on free space optical communication technologies. The EAGLE-1 satellite-based system will be capable of in-orbit validation and seeks to usher in next-generation cybersecurity across Europe.
The EAGLE-1 satellite is due to launch in 2024 and will then complete three years of in-orbit mission supported by the European Commission.
For the project, SES will build the space-based QKD system, developing and operating the dedicated low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite. The satellite is to be supported by an operations center in Luxembourg.
SES is leading a consortium of 20 European companies that, with the help of the European Space Agency and the European Commission, will help develop satellite-based quantum key distribution. Courtesy of SES.
Using the EAGLE-1 system, ESA and the European Union (EU) member states will achieve the first step to demonstrate and validate QKD technologies from LEO to the ground, according to SES. The EAGLE-1 project will provide mission data for next-generation quantum communication infrastructures (QCIs).
This data, according to SES, will contribute, for example, to EU plans to deploy a sovereign, autonomous, cross-border quantum secure communications networks.
During the EAGLE-1's operational phase, the satellite will allow EU governments and institutions, as well as critical business sectors, early access to long-distance QKD to pave the way toward an EU constellation enabling ultrasecure data transmissions.
To implement the ultrasecure cryptographic key exchange system of EAGLE-1, the consortium will develop the QKD payload, terrestrial optical station, scalable quantum operational networks, and key management system to interface with national QCIs.
LATEST NEWS
- Exail Signs LLNL Contract, Partners with Eelume
Apr 26, 2024
- Menlo Moves U.S. HQ: Week in Brief: 4/26/2024
Apr 26, 2024
- Optofluidics Platform Keys Label-, Amplification-Free Rapid Diagnostic Tool
Apr 25, 2024
- DUV Lasers Made with Nonlinear Crystals Enhance Lithography Performance
Apr 25, 2024
- Teledyne e2v, Airy3D Collaborate on 3D Vision Solutions
Apr 24, 2024
- One-Step Hologram Generation Speeds 3D Display Creation
Apr 24, 2024
- Innovation Award Winners for Laser Technology Honored in Aachen
Apr 23, 2024
- Intech 2024: AI Arrives on the Shop Floor
Apr 22, 2024