The Quantum Network of the Future Is Taking Shape on the Roof of BME’s Building I

Construction work began in mid-September on the roof of BME’s Building I as part of preparations for the installation of an optical ground station acquired last year for quantum communications purposes. Developed by Austrian company Quantum Technology Laboratories GmbH (Qtlabs), the equipment is expected to be permanently installed by the end of the year.

The new facility will enable BME to track and communicate with quantum key distribution (QKD) satellites operating in the infrared range. One such system will be the satellite of the European Space Agency’s Eagle-1 mission, which is scheduled to be launched in the near future.

The operation of the ground station requires specialised infrastructure. The components of the concrete foundation and support column were lifted into place by crane, after which specialists assembled the structure on the roof. The support column will carry the ground station’s high-precision telescope, a key component in enabling satellite-based quantum communications.

One of the most important advantages of satellite-based quantum communications is that it enables physically secure key exchange between locations separated by great distances. While conventional optical networks require multiple intermediate nodes or trusted repeater stations for long-distance connections, satellite-based quantum key distribution can establish a direct link between the endpoints.

The procurement, announced in May 2025, was funded through the QCIHungary project, launched in 2023 with support from the European Union and the Hungarian state and running until the end of this year. BME plans to utilise the system for scientific and technological purposes within the CEQCI (QCI Network in Central Europe) project, implemented as part of the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure.

The aim of the project is to establish a Central European quantum communications infrastructure. As part of this effort, BME’s ground station will be able to cooperate with similar systems operated by international partners, including the ground station of the University of Innsbruck. 

The planned connection will demonstrate the feasibility of implementing quantum-based, highly secure communications in an international environment.

BME coordinates the 11-member international CEQCI consortium, the project’s scientific coordinator is László Bacsárdi, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Networked Systems and Services. BME also leads two of the project’s working groups, while other research communities at the university, including physicists, are contributing to the development and research activities alongside the department.

The support structures now being installed mark a significant step forward in creating an infrastructure that will provide unique opportunities for research in Hungary and international demonstration of the quantum-secure communications networks of the future.

Rector’s Office, Directorate of Communications