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.