QuaNTUM: A Modular Quantum Communication Testbed for Scalable Fiber and Satellite Integration

• URL: http://arxiv.org/abs/2603.11314v1
• Date: Wed, 11 Mar 2026 21:22:12 GMT
• Title: QuaNTUM: A Modular Quantum Communication Testbed for Scalable Fiber and Satellite Integration
• Abstract summary: We present QuaNTUM (Quantum Network at the Technical University of Munich), a scalable quantum communication testbed.<n>The network connects research institutions in Garching near Munich via single-mode fibers in a star topology with polarization-maintaining components.<n>A key feature is the integration of deterministic solid-state single-photon sources, including defects in hexagonal boron nitride and excited erbium atoms.
• Score: 0.0
• License: http://arxiv.org/licenses/nonexclusive-distrib/1.0/
• Abstract: Secure communication is essential for modern society, from financial transactions to critical infrastructure. As classical encryption faces threats from advancing computational power, quantum communication provides a fundamentally secure alternative based on physical laws. We present QuaNTUM (Quantum Network at the Technical University of Munich), a modular and extensible quantum communication testbed enabling scalable experiments across fiber-based campus networks and satellite-ground links. The terrestrial network connects research institutions in Garching near Munich via single-mode fibers in a star topology with polarization-maintaining components, multiplexers, and time-synchronized analysis modules. Active polarization control and real-time feedback support stable qubit transmission for high-fidelity quantum key distribution and entanglement distribution. A key feature is the integration of deterministic solid-state single-photon sources, including defects in hexagonal boron nitride and excited erbium atoms, with initial deployments on small satellites to bridge terrestrial and free-space channels. As an open-access platform, QuaNTUM enables protocol development, device benchmarking, and hybrid network research, providing a foundation for scalable quantum communication and future global quantum networks.

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