Quantum Technologies in Space

TL;DR

This paper reviews the current state and future prospects of quantum technologies in space, emphasizing Europe's coordinated efforts to develop secure communication and sensing solutions for space applications.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive framework for designing, developing, and implementing quantum technologies specifically for space environments and applications.

Findings

European investments boost quantum space tech development

Coordination is essential for successful quantum space initiatives

Quantum tech promises breakthroughs in secure space communication

Abstract

Recently, the European Commission supported by many European countries has announced large investments towards the commercialization of quantum technology (QT) to address and mitigate some of the biggest challenges facing today's digital era - e.g. secure communication and computing power. For more than two decades the QT community has been working on the development of QTs, which promise landmark breakthroughs leading to commercialization in various areas. The ambitious goals of the QT community and expectations of EU authorities cannot be met solely by individual initiatives of single countries, and therefore, require a combined European effort of large and unprecedented dimensions comparable only to the Galileo or Copernicus programs. Strong international competition calls for a coordinated European effort towards the development of QT in and for space, including research and development of technology in the areas of communication and sensing. Here, we aim at summarizing the state of the art in the development of quantum technologies which have an impact in the field of space applications. Our goal is to outline a complete framework for the design, development, implementation, and exploitation of quantum technology in space.