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The 20th century bequeathed a scientific and technological legacy marked by milestones like quantum mechanics and groundbreaking space missions. Both pursuits have paved new paths for expanding our understanding of nature, standing as true benchmarks of modern science. Quantum theory and space science constitute foundational elements of a robust research framework, propelling the exploration of the frontiers of modern physics through experimental tests conducted in space, offering unique working conditions.

Space-based generation of entangled photons holds the potential to establish global quantum communication networks, conduct long-distance tests of quantum theory, and investigate the intricate interplay between relativity and quantum entanglement.

Extended free-fall durations provide opportunities for high-precision tests of general relativity and examinations of the equivalence principle for quantum systems.

Leveraging microgravity, deep space’s high vacuum, and low temperatures offer the prospect of studying deviations from standard quantum theory for high-mass test particles. Spaceborne experiments in metrology and sensing are poised to elevate the precision of clocks, mass detectors, and transducers, pushing towards the engineering of innovative quantum technologies.

“Quantum Technologies in Space (QTSpace)” aspires to create this dynamic framework, presenting an exciting opportunity to deepen our comprehension of fundamental physics mechanisms in an entirely novel context. QTSpace embodies a visionary initiative for advancing our understanding of the universe’s intricacies.

Link: www.qtspace.eu

Microscopic systems can assume quantum configurations devoid of classical counterparts. However, as we transition toward the macroscopic domain, the potential for such non-classical behavior diminishes, leaving us with no evidence of quantum phenomena at larger scales. Why does this happen, and how does quantumness dissipate as we move beyond the microscopic realm? These questions, still largely unanswered, present intriguing and formidable challenges in modern physics research, aligning with the overarching goal of the TEQ project.

TEQ seeks to explore the macroscopic limits of quantum mechanics through an innovative research program that goes beyond existing approaches reliant on matter-wave interferometry. The TEQ Consortium will undertake the following objectives:

1. Confine a specially crafted nanocrystal within a radio-frequency ion trap, employing optical parametric feedback to cool it and create ultra-low noise environments for operation.

2. Quantitatively identify and experimentally control all major sources of decoherence impacting the nanocrystal, aiming to prepare high-quality quantum states of its motional degrees of freedom.

3. Examine the light scattered by the nanocrystal to test quantum predictions for its motion against those of spontaneous collapse and non-standard decoherence mechanisms. This analysis aims to identify and either confirm or rule out key quantum-spoiling effects that have not been thoroughly explored to date.

This roadmap facilitates the testing of quantum effects in systems with masses orders of magnitude larger than those employed in the most successful quantum experiments thus far, bridging the gap with the macroscopic world. Additionally, it promises significant technological impact. The constructed device will exhibit exceptional sensitivity to frequency and displacements, making a substantial and explicit technological contribution to the development of quantum-enhanced metrological sensors.

Link: www.tequantum.eu

The goal of the QuFree project is to establish a free-space communication link, meaning communication through the air, for the secure exchange of keys generated with quantum technology. Air serves as the medium for transmitting quantum communication complementary to optical fiber. Therefore, QuFree complements the Quantum FVG project, already funded by RAFVG and currently underway. The Quantum FVG project involves creating two optical fiber links (UniTS-SISSA and UniTS-UniUD) for the exchange of cryptographic keys generated with quantum technology.

Quantum communication in fiber performs exceptionally well over distances up to several hundred kilometers, making it particularly suitable for metropolitan and regional levels. However, for longer distances (several thousand kilometers), there are two alternatives: securely connect multiple segments using trusted nodes, or employ satellite communication. Satellite communication has the additional advantage of being usable over very long distances (intercontinental connections) and for links with mobile stations, such as ships. This latter aspect is especially relevant for the city of Trieste and its port.

The preliminary step to satellite communication is the implementation of free-space quantum communication, which involves an optical link between two locations with a direct line of sight. Special attention is given to assessing the behaviour of the quantum link under adverse weather conditions to ensure its continuous and long-term use.

The free-space link established by the QuFree project will later be integrated into the Quantum FVG project’s optical fiber quantum network. Additionally, the University of Trieste is participating in the European EuroQCI project to create a continental quantum communication network. Within this context, the regional quantum network will be connected to the national network (Italian Quantum Backbone) by establishing a Trieste-Bologna link.

QuFree, along with the Quantum FVG project, contributes to achieving one of the objectives outlined in the SiS FVG agreement to establish a ‘scientific network of excellence’ in Friuli Venezia Giulia between universities and research entities. This aims to strengthen the action capacity, attractiveness, and competitiveness at the national and international levels for these institutions. Furthermore, it will enhance RAFVG’s role in the landscape of Italian research and technological development, both in quantum communication via fiber and for future satellite communication.

QuFree will be implemented in collaboration with CNR-INO and LightNet, with the funding aimed at acquiring the necessary instrumentation for creating the free-space link.

The project is funded by the Region Friuli Venezia Giulia.

Quantum FVG envisions the creation of an inherently secure data transmission infrastructure on optical fiber based on quantum communication for the digital innovation of businesses and the regional Public Administration. The network links the three university entities (UniTS, UniUD, and Sissa) and involves the participation of additional regional research entities, particularly CNR.

Quantum technologies applied to long-distance communication are the subject of significant investments in Europe and around the world. In Europe, the Quantum Technology Flagship, the EuroQCI, the European organization GEANT, involving collaboration with 38 national research networks, and the Italian-Quantum Backbone project of CNR, along with the QUAPITAL network, serve as crucial examples for the development prospects of quantum technologies.

With the Quantum FVG project, the aim is to fund the acquisition of equipment for the implementation of the quantum network connecting three nodes, one in each of the three involved entities, using dedicated fiber, in collaboration with LightNET. Furthermore, the Quantum FVG project contributes to achieving one of the objectives outlined in the SiS FVG agreement to establish a ‘scientific network of excellence’ in Friuli Venezia Giulia between universities and research entities. This aims to strengthen the action capacity, attractiveness, and competitiveness at the national and international levels for these institutions.

The project is funded by the Region Friuli Venezia Giulia.

QUID (Quantum Italy Deployment) is set to initiate the deployment of the Quantum Communication Infrastructure (QCI) in Italy. QUID’s primary focus is on deploying systems and networks nationwide to test quantum communication technologies, with a specific emphasis on the quantum distribution of cryptographic keys and integration with existing communication systems. Simultaneously, QUID aims to encourage the adoption of these systems and networks through various use cases.

The QUID project is centered around deploying multiple nodes in Metropolitan Area Networks utilizing Discrete Variable Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) connected by a fiber backbone. Throughout the project, various nodes will test QKD systems, employing techniques such as Trusted Node and Twin Field QKD (for Untrusted Nodes) for long-distance deployment. QUID will also establish connections with sites crucial for interconnection with the space segment of the European QCI.

Recognizing the ongoing possibilities for innovation in Quantum Key Distribution, QUID is dedicated to enhancing QKD features, focusing on aspects such as high-rate capabilities, the use of innovative fibers, and the implementation of free-space QKD—particularly in scenarios where mobility is required or where fiber infrastructure is unavailable.

To establish a robust ecosystem, the QUID consortium comprises leading Italian companies specializing in systems integration, QKD device manufacturing, telecommunication network operations, and comprehensive cybersecurity solutions. Additionally, the consortium includes major research institutes involved in both terrestrial and space quantum communication, along with five prominent universities committed to fostering innovation and providing training opportunities.

This initiative aims to establish the National Quantum Science and Technology Institute (NQSTI), a consortium that (i) will unite Italian entities engaged in competitive and innovative research in quantum science and technology (QST), and (ii) will foster future industrial innovation by serving as a platform for the transfer of novel ideas and opportunities to companies. To ensure a lasting positive impact on Italian economic growth and development, the entire innovation chain has been considered. This ranges from strengthening and coordinating low-TRL research to translating it into prototypes, promoting interaction with industrial needs through robust outreach and continued-education programs. Notably, the proposal encompasses the creation and incubation of spin-offs and start-ups, allocating substantial resources with a special focus on the southern regions to elevate research outcomes in the TRL-ranking.

Link: https://nqsti.it/