
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
LaiQa project aims to advance Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology for future quantum satellite networks and space-based secure communication. These networks are envisioned to securely exchange encryption keys across global devices. Initiatives like the European Quantum Communications Infrastructure (EuroQCI) highlight the need for secure quantum space communication. LaiQa aims to support Euro-QCI by developing critical QKD components for the space segment. LaiQa also aims to introduce advanced technology platforms for on-board components, paving the way for a future quantum space internet. It plans to conduct space qualifications, demonstrations, and contribute to EU standards for QKD and Quantum Communications in space segments.
LaiQa comes as a technology intensive research and innovation action aiming to develop and advance critical components and technologies necessary to build a global spaced-based quantum network. LaiQa envisions to realize unconditionally secure quantum communications over long distances bringing functional QKD components together with advanced system integration techniques towards deployable space-QKD systems. The project’s objectives will include the development of space-deployable, high-brightness 1550 nm entangled photon pair source (EPPS), a space-suitable Decoy State – BB84 Prepare and Measure (P&M) source, a photonic integrated EPPS for next generation on-board sender stations, a quantum memory for long-distance entanglement distribution, an advanced fiber coupling/ adaptive optics system for converged space/terrestrial QKD segments, and software components towards the optimization of LaiQa architecture. The project will demonstrate P&M- and entanglement based QKD systems both in lab/terrestrial FSO testbeds and in field demonstrations in Helmos optical ground station (OGS). LaiQa will also mobilize its consortium to prioritize standardization activities that focus on space components for P&M- and entanglement- QKD, consider interfaces and parameters for them to propose specification standards and potentially trigger new standardization activities within EU.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.