EL
SEGUNDO, Calif., Sept. 10,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today
announced the scheduled 2026 launch of a satellite – dubbed Q4S –
which is designed to demonstrate quantum entanglement swapping
capabilities on orbit. This Boeing-funded, first-of-its-kind space
mission brings humanity closer to building a secure, global quantum
internet that connects quantum sensors and computers.
Quantum sensors are much more precise than today's
state-of-the-art instruments and quantum computers have the
capacity to process large amounts of data, offering potential to
revolutionize an array of industries. This experiment is attempting
to demonstrate quantum networking in space, helping to better
understand how these networks can be built across vast distances
and remain highly synchronized.
Boeing is setting the stage for a revolution in how we handle
information with secure, quantum-enhanced applications, such as
fault-tolerant systems that reduce errors in computing, secure
voting mechanisms that protect electoral integrity, and blind
quantum computing which allows data to be processed without
exposure.
"We're making a big bet on quantum technology," said
Jay Lowell, chief engineer for
Boeing's Disruptive Computing, Networks & Sensors organization.
"Quantum entanglement swapping underpins the communication of the
future, expanding quantum networks beyond simple point-to-point
communication. We're launching Q4S to prove it can be done in
orbit."
Entanglement swapping relies on quantum teleportation – a method
where the information carried by a particle can be transferred
without having to move the particle itself across the distance.
Albert Einstein famously referred to
this ethereal concept as "spooky action at a distance,"
underscoring the complex nature of quantum mechanics.
"By demonstrating entanglement swapping, we can create a
scalable network, where quantum information can be transmitted over
vast distances, something currently limited by decoherence and
loss," said Lowell.
Quantum networking capabilities in space can unlock new
potential, helping researchers gather more data about the Earth and
space environments – areas where current instrument sensitivity and
resolution limit progress.
"Boeing has always served as a pioneer, pushing the boundaries
of what's possible," said Todd
Citron, Boeing's Chief Technology Officer. "We're doing much
more than participating in quantum research, we are leading the way
to operationalize and scale quantum technologies for global
applications."
The year-long Q4S demonstration involves two entangled-photon
pair sources housed within a space vehicle. Boeing's payload and
technology partner, HRL Laboratories, a joint venture between
Boeing and GM [NYSE: GM], has made significant advancements in
benchtop exercises as the joint team finalizes technical designs of
a space-hardened payload that is ready for launch.
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops,
manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products
and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a
top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global
supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and
community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating
for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a
culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and
integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at
boeing.com/careers.
HRL Laboratories, LLC, Malibu,
California, (hrl.com) pioneers the next frontiers of
physical and information science. Delivering transformative
technologies in automotive, aerospace and defense, HRL advances the
critical missions of its customers. As a private company owned
jointly by Boeing and GM, HRL is a source of innovations that
advance the state of the art in profound and far-reaching ways.
Contact
Zeyad
Maasarani
Boeing
Communications
+1-562-400-5533
zeyad.maasarani@boeing.com
Boeing Media Relations
media@boeing.com
HRL Laboratories Media
Relations
media@hrl.com
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SOURCE Boeing
