Invited talk at first workshop of space quantum network

On 4th August, Lia spoke at the first workshop of the International Network in Space Quantum Technologies (INSQT). Zero Point Motion is a founding member of this new network, which was launched earlier this year to accelerate the deployment of quantum technologies in space.

As “quantum 2.0” technology rapidly develops, INSQT is anticipating the need to bring these innovations to space to realise the full potential of the quantum revolution. In particular, INSQT aims to build a roadmap to the creation of a quantum internet.

But space missions pose new challenges for advanced technology, from the limits on size and mass of a satellite payload to the radiation and extreme temperature changes that space-based devices are exposed to. INSQT is therefore organising meetings to focus the scientific and engineering community on these issues.

The first workshop of the INSQT took place from 3-5 August at the University of Strathclyde, which is leading the network. Lia gave a talk on “The evolution of silicon photonics as a guide for maturing quantum sensors”. She spoke about how collaboration and open-source design kits have enabled new silicon photonics devices – and how similar strategies could be applied to build quantum sensors ready for space.

Zero Point Motion is one of over 40 INSQT members, which include universities, national institutes and businesses from across the world. The network was recently granted funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.