Live stage show on the Tech Transfer Stage (Hall 2, Stand B02)

Where quanta become reality – quantum technologies at DLR

When? 2 April 2025, 09:45 – 11:00

With moderator and podcaster Daniel Finger.

Where quanta become reality – quantum technologies at the German Aerospace Center (DLR)

Interview with Prof Kai Bongs, Director of the DLR Institute of Quantum Technologies

What exactly is quanta? And how are they relevant to DLR, aerospace, energy, transport and security? In this interview, Prof Kai Bongs gives an insight into how DLR is leading the way in quantum technology research, translating findings into real-world applications and commercial markets. Spaceflight is not only a way into space – it is also a technology driver and a pathfinder for new quantum technology developments. This interview will highlight why quantum research is more important today than ever before and how these advancements enhance security, independence and resilience for the future.

Quantum sensors for spaceflight

Short presentation by Dr Lisa Wörner, Director of the DLR Institute of Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing, and ESA astronaut Dr Gerhard Thiele

Dr Lisa Wörner (DLR) and ESA astronaut Dr Gerhard Thiele will provide insights into the future of Earth observation using quantum sensors. DLR is developing cutting-edge quantum sensor technology for space, which is also being tested on the International Space Station (ISS). Quantum phenomena, in particular ultracold atoms, enable more precise acceleration measurements of, for example, Earth’s gravitational field and for satellite navigation. The discussion will draw on parallels and comparable challenges with astronaut Gerhard Thiele’s Shuttle Radar Topography Mission – one of the most ambitious Earth observation missions, which in 2000 delivered a near-global, high-resolution 3D map of Earth’s surface.

Where does time actually come from? DLR laser clock sets global accuracy records

Short presentation by Prof Kai Bongs, Director of the DLR Institute of Quantum Technologies

As part of the COMPASSO project, DLR is developing a space-qualified laser clock that will be tested on the International Space Station (ISS) from 2027. This laser clock has achieved record-breaking precision for compact optical clocks – 100 times more accurate than today’s satellite-based timekeeping systems, making it highly attractive for satellite navigation. It operates based on a laser that is stabilised using iodine molecules. Quantum clocks on navigation satellites are a crucial source of time information. Precise timekeeping is an ‘invisible resource’ for the economy and society, underpinning many technologies, including energy grids and communication networks, financial trading and the control of industrial processes. A greater precision of time information promises competitive advantages and innovation potential for future technologies, such as autonomous and networked mobility.

The quantum world cannot be eavesdropped on – DLR research in quantum communication

Short presentation by Dr Christian Fuchs, DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation

In his short talk, Dr Christian Fuchs will provide insights into current research on quantum communication and quantum key distribution. Together with industry and research, DLR has developed numerous systems and satellite terminals for satellite-based quantum key distribution. Due to the principles of quantum physics, quantum communication makes it possible to set up completely tap-proof communication systems. This is particularly interesting for secure quantum key distribution (QKD), which allows for the encrypting and decrypting of data. Satellite-based QKD systems enable the global transmission of cryptographic keys. DLR is contributing its expertise to numerous ground-based system demonstrations – such as in the QuNET project, experiments with aircraft, and satellite missions such as QUBE, QUBE-2 and EAGLE-1.

The quantum computing ecosystem of the DLR Quantum Computing Initiative (DLR QCI)

Short presentation by Dr Robert Axmann, Head of the DLR Quantum Computing Initiative

At its Innovation Centers in Hamburg and Ulm, the DLR Quantum Computing Initiative (DLR QCI) has established a unique ecosystem for the industrialisation of quantum computing. The DLR QCI accelerates technology transfer between research and industry, promotes cooperation and innovation and creates an attractive environment for skilled professionals. Research institutions, industry and start-ups are working together at these innovation centres to develop hardware, software and practical applications. DLR QCI brings together DLR research projects, industry, start-ups and future users, and provides them with high-tech laboratories, clean rooms and offices. With its full-stack approach, DLR QCI connects developers and users of quantum computers, deep-tech start-ups and industrial and governmental users. It thus creates the conditions for a sustainable quantum computing ecosystem.

Quantum sensor technology and optimisations in aviation through quantum computing

Short presentation by Dr Christian Schubert, DLR Institute of Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing and Prof Michael Felderer, Director of the DLR Institute of Software Technology

Quantum sensors are opening up new frontiers in aviation, enabling drift-free measurements of acceleration and rotation. Future applications include navigation in regions without satellite-based positioning and resource exploration. Quantum computers also have enormous potential to efficiently solve complex optimisation problems in aviation, including planning flight routes to increase safety and efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. This talk will explore how quantum sensors and quantum computers are also providing new solutions in other branches of industry where conventional computers are reaching their limits.

International perspectives on quantum technologies – DLR and NRC in dialogue

Moderated discussion with Dr Joel Martin, National Research Council Canada (NRC), Dr Lisa Wörner, Director of the DLR Institute of Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing and Prof Kai Bongs, Director of the DLR Institute of Quantum Technologies

Experience an inspiring speed talk between DLR and the National Research Council Canada (NRC) on the future of quantum technologies! The discussion will explore the prospects and trends in quantum communication and Earth observation that are already shaping tomorrow’s applications. How will these technologies change our everyday lives? Find out more about DLR’s work in knowledge exchange and technology transfer to industry, while the NRC also provides insights into its work, the international perspective and collaboration with industry.

BECCAL – High-precision quantum sensors for Earth observation, navigation and quantum communication

Moderated discussion with Dr Lisa Wörner, Director of the DLR Institute of Satellite Geodesy and Inertial Sensing, Dr Rebekka Grellmann, German Space Agency at DLR and ESA astronaut Dr Gerhard Thiele

In 2027, DLR and NASA will launch the BECCAL (Bose-Einstein Condensate Cold Atom Laboratory) experimental platform to the International Space Station (ISS). Researchers around the world will then be able to conduct remote-controlled experiments with ultra-cold, condensed atoms in microgravity. The goal is to harness Bose-Einstein condensates for high-precision gravitational and inertial sensors. This should make it possible to measure the slightest accelerations – whether due to gravity or rotation – using the interference effects of the ultracold atoms. The range of applications extends from Earth observation, navigation and quantum communication to experiments on fundamental physical theories like the general theory of relativity. BECCAL will provide novel measurement methods for quantum sensors and serve as a technology driver for future missions.