This workshop gives satellite engineers and quantum network architects a technically grounded assessment of satellite QKD systems, from photon-level physics through to constellation economics.
In-depth technical workshop on satellite QKD systems, covering the physics of photon transmission over free-space optical links, demonstrated results from Micius, QEYSSat, and the ESA EAGLE-1 programme, and current LEO QKD constellation proposals. Addresses optical ground station requirements, atmospheric turbulence mitigation, link budget engineering, and the integration of satellite QKD keys into terrestrial fibre quantum networks and classical key management systems.
Satellite QKD extends quantum key distribution beyond the 100-200km range limit of terrestrial fibre. The Micius satellite demonstrated BB84 decoy-state key distribution over 1,200km in 2017, achieving secure key rates of approximately 1 kbit/s during a satellite pass. Since then, several national and commercial programmes have advanced the technology. ESA's EAGLE-1 is the European pathfinder for the EuroQCI sovereign quantum communication infrastructure. SpeQtral and Arqit are pursuing commercial LEO constellations. The practical engineering challenges remain significant: atmospheric turbulence at low elevation angles, single-photon detector noise in daylight, weather-dependent availability, and the cost of deploying and maintaining optical ground stations. This workshop provides the technical depth to evaluate satellite QKD proposals against specific use cases and to make informed build-versus-buy decisions grounded in physics, not marketing claims.
Full-day session structure with scheduled breaks. Content is configurable to your mission architecture, orbit regime, and network integration requirements.
| # | Session | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Satellite QKD Physics and Protocol Fundamentals How quantum key distribution works over free-space optical channels | |
| 2 | Satellite QKD Missions and Demonstration Results What Micius, QEYSSat, EAGLE-1, and SpeQtral have proven |
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| Break, after 50 min | ||
| 3 | Free-Space Optical Link Engineering Atmospheric effects, link budgets, and ground station requirements |
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| 4 | Interactive Demonstration: Satellite QKD Link Budget Analysis Full-day format only |
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| Break, after 60 min | ||
| 5 | Network Architecture and Ground Integration Connecting satellite QKD to terrestrial quantum networks |
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| 6 | Commercial Landscape and Procurement Guidance Independent assessment of satellite QKD providers |
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| 7 | Q&A and Programme Planning | |
Workshops are designed and delivered by QSECDEF in collaboration with sector specialists. All facilitators have direct experience in both quantum technologies and space systems.
Workshop design and delivery
QSECDEF brings world-leading expertise in post-quantum cryptography, quantum computing strategy, and defence-grade security assessment. Our advisory membership spans 600+ organisations and 1,200+ professionals working at the intersection of quantum technologies and critical infrastructure security.
Domain expertise and operational validation
Space workshops are co-delivered with sector specialists who bring direct operational experience in space organisations. This ensures workshop content is grounded in regulatory, operational, and technical realities specific to the sector.
Sessions are configured around your mission architecture, orbit regime, ground station infrastructure, and network integration requirements. Get in touch to discuss requirements and schedule a date.
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