QKD for Space
Quantum-based cybersecurity solutions
Today’s quantum-based cybersecurity solutions leverage on the enhancements and innovation brought by space-based optical communications technologies. By leveraging on both ground-based and space-based architectures, ThinkQuantum, one of Officina Stellare’s group companies, harnesses advanced cybersecurity solutions empowered by Heisenberg principles.
Our quantum-based cybersecurity solutions leveraging on hybrid architectures ensure the most secure and reliable, geographically distributed communication for both civilian and governmental uses.
Cybersecurity involves protecting internet-connected systems, including hardware, software, and data, from cyber threats. It encompasses a wide range of practices, tools, and technologies to secure information and prevent unauthorized access, damage, or disruption. A key role is played by encryptions keys. Upcoming Quantum computers have the potential to break many of the cryptographic methods currently used to secure digital communications.
Quantum Key Distribution leverages the principles of quantum mechanics, using quantum particles like photons to create and distribute encryption keys that are immune to interception, securing data transmission with methods resistant to quantum computer attacks.
PROJECTS
EAGLE 1
Pioneering the future of Quantum communications
The “EAGLE-1” space mission co-financed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and endorsed by European Commission (EC) – together with various European space agencies and industries, is the European space-based Quantum Key Distribution demonstration forerunner. EAGLE1, once ready, will demonstrate the feasibility of satellite based QKD services within the European Union. The mission will provide the first space segment backbone for the future implementation of a quantum communications infrastructure for the EU (EuroQCI), on which next-generation cybersecurity infrastructure for EU member states will be based.
In the frame of EAGLE1, Officina Stellare is delivering the Optical Ground Station dome and the signature telescope and mount system of the first European ground station for the distribution of quantum keys (QKD).
Therefore, the EAGLE1 OGS defines the de facto standard of future quantum communication infrastructure for Europe. It is setting the turn-key benchmark for QKD OGS in terms of specifications, reliability, and achievements, enabling Customers the certainty of integrating highly advanced solutions in their QKD space-to-ground infrastructure.
Also, Officina Stellare is involved in the development of the SAGA Optical Ground Station, Europe next generation Quantum Key Distribution services, ensuring continuity and compatibility.
SAGA
Highly secure quantum communication infrastructure
Officina Stellare is working with its controlled companies ThinkQuantum and Dynamic Optics to the SAGA (Security And cryptoGrAphic mission) project, funded by the European Space Agency (ESA) and falling under the Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) program. Specifically, it aligns with the Space Systems for Safety and Security (4S) strategy under the ARTES program.
The SAGA project aims to develop a highly secure quantum communication infrastructure across Europe. The purpose of this project is to enhance the security of critical infrastructure and communications against cyberattacks. This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to establish a pan-European quantum communication network.
The project is a collaboration between ESA and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (DG Connect). It not only aims to protect sensitive data and communications but also to foster innovation, boost European leadership in quantum technologies, and support the development of new business opportunities in the field of secure communications.
Officina Stellare will provide the complete Optical Ground Station for the SAGA consortium led by Thales Alenia Space Italy.
C3PO
OGS for European Space Operations Center
Officina Stellare is working to the C3PO Project, a collaboration that also involves the subsidiaries of the OS group, Dynamic Optics and ThinkQuantum, the German Work Microwave and NovaSpace (former Euroconsult). The C3PO project, funded by the European Space Agency (ESA), falling under the ESA GSTP (General Support Technology Program) framework, consists in an industrialized OGS (Optical Ground Station), destined to the European Space Operations Center, ESOC in Darmstadt, Germany.
The OGS will be developed to meet market needs in both classical and quantum communication, and will include, among others, an adaptive optics system for fiber optic signal coupling, a laser beacon system, a high pointing performance telescope and an operation control and orchestration system. The OGS will be optimized to be operational on the roof of the ESOC building, thus demonstrating the feasibility of an extremely interesting use case for the lasercom application.
The OGS will be minimized in mass and designed to be as much as possible easily transportable.
The industrial team of the C3PO optical ground station is formed by Officina Stellare in charge of the design and the manufacturing of the adaptive optical system with the contribution of Dynamic Optics; by ThinkQuantum for the part of quantum cryptography and Work Microwave which will take care of the part relating to the optical digital modem and NovaSpace (former Euroconsult), a consultancy company for local development and internationalization, also participates in the development of this specific case-study.