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Q-IRENA
Q-IRENA explores entanglement-based quantum networks that enable the transmission, storage, and processing of quantum information across distributed systems. The project investigates applications including quantum-secure communication, cloud-based quantum computing, and distributed sensing, while developing network architectures, protocols, and technologies for future satellite-supported quantum networks and their practical implementation.
Quantum technologies have made significant progress in recent years. Early quantum computers, quantum sensors, and quantum communication systems are already available. However, many long-term applications will only emerge through their interconnection. Quantum networks enable the transmission, storage, and joint processing of quantum information. A key element of quantum networks is entanglement, which allows quantum states to be correlated over large distances.
The Q-IRENA (Quantum Information Ready Entanglement-based Network Applications) project investigates concepts and applications for entanglement-based quantum networks. These include applications such as quantum-secure communication, secure cloud-based quantum computing, and distributed quantum sensing. The project's objective is to analyze potential use cases and develop architectural approaches for interconnecting different quantum technologies.
The realization of quantum networks presents technical challenges, as quantum information can neither be copied nor classically amplified. This limits communication range, particularly in fiber-based networks. Therefore, Q-IRENA investigates various approaches to satellite-based quantum networks and develops protocols for the distribution of quantum information. In addition, key technologies for quantum networks are being further developed and experimentally investigated. These include components for the generation and processing of entangled quantum states, as well as approaches for the storage and transmission of quantum information. Experimental demonstrations of quantum-state transmission via optical free-space links are also conducted to evaluate performance and potential applications under realistic conditions.
Q-IRENA brings together several institutes of the German Aerospace Center (DLR), including the Institute of Quantum Technologies, the Institute for Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing, and the Institute of Communications and Navigation. The insights gained contribute to the development of a roadmap for the implementation of entanglement-based quantum networks and provide an important foundation for the further advancement of interconnected quantum technologies in communication, sensing, and information processing.
Departments
Contact
Prof. Dr. Meike List
Director
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute for Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing
Am Fallturm 9, 28359 Bremen
Germany