Exploring mission concepts for quantum space network (quasar) demonstrator (artes 4.0 sl spl 3h.012) - expro+
Description
Objective: The objective of the activity is to investigate mission concepts for entanglement distribution QUAntum SpAce netwoRk (QUASAR) in the context ofQuantum Information Networks. The aim is to define preliminary requirements of the in-orbit-experiment, involving a space segment and at least twodistant ground stations, required to verify entanglement distribution from space.TargetedImprovements:The targeted improvement is to mature the quantum payload concept definition and mission requirement, to improve the viability of the in-orbitexperiment of satellite entanglement distribution with the current and near-future technology.Description: The development of Quantum Information Networks (QIN) is rapidly increasing, driven largely by the expansion of terrestrial fibre networks. However,long distance quantum communication remains fundamentally constrained by fibre losses. To overcome this limitation, the integration of a space segmentis essential. A critical step towards this integration is the execution of an in-orbit experimentto validate space-to-ground entanglement distribution. Thismission would represent a major milestone in demonstrating the satellites' role in the expansion of Quantum Information Networks.The proposed activity aims to prove the technical feasibility of space-based QIN. Consequently, this would strengthen the market potential by confirmingsatellite-to-ground entanglement distribution capabilities. The main tasks of this activity will: identifying the critical elements involved in the space and ground segments (for technical and economic suitability); exploring the various possible system concepts by modelling to determine possibilities, characteristics or the criticality of certain elements; comparing these concepts against the needs, to determine levels of uncertainty andrisk; estimating the technical and industrial feasibility; identifying, for each possible system concept, the constraints relating to costs, schedules, organisation, utilisation (operations, implementation,maintenance), production and disposal, as well as the estimated margins in relation to the targets.
About This Opportunity
This is a services contract in the information and communication technology sector. Located in International, Europe, this opportunity is open to firms and consortiums, with an estimated budget of EUR 500,000.
Published through ESA - European Space Agency, a multilateral development bank that follows standardized international procurement guidelines. Projects funded by multilateral institutions are generally open to international bidders from eligible member countries for services in the information and communication technology sector. Service contracts are typically evaluated on both technical quality and price, and may require bidders to demonstrate relevant experience and qualified personnel. This is an advance notice โ the formal tender is expected to be published shortly. Interested parties can use this time to prepare documentation and identify potential partners.