The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
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Exploring our Solar System and unlocking the secrets of the Universe
Go to topicProtecting life and infrastructure on Earth and in orbit
Go to topicUsing space to benefit citizens and meet future challenges on Earth
Go to topicMaking space accessible and developing the technologies for the future
Go to topicMagali Vaissiere, ESA Director of Telecommunications and Integrated Applications, and Nicole Robinson, SVP Global Government, SES Networks, sign the QUARTZ contract on 2 May 2018 in Toulouse, France.
QUARTZ is a new platform aimed at providing a global satellite-based service for next-generation quantum key distribution of encryption keys, for use in geographically-dispersed networks. Possible applications address needs of such users as telecommunication operators, financial organisations, critical infrastructure providers, institutions and governmental organisations.
QUARTZ is a project developed under the umbrella of a new part of ESA’s programme of Advanced Research in Telecommunication Systems (ARTES) that is dedicated to quantum technologies. The SeCure and Laser communication Technology programme (ScyLight), fosters the development, deployment and wider market adoption of innovative optical technologies for satellite communications.