QET Labs researchers celebrate their contribution to space mission launch advancing UK standing in quantum communications

Press release issued:

A landmark space mission built on UK research excellence is set to accelerate progress in quantum communications, as the Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN) and EPSRC funded Quantum Communications Hubs launch the pioneering “Satellite Platform for Optical Quantum Communications” (SPOQC).
On 30th March 2026, the Space Platform for Optical Quantum Communications (SPOQC) was launched with a dual wavelength polarisation encoded BB84 and Decoy State protocol capable quantum transmitter on board. The SPOQC satellite is a joint effort from the EPSRC funded Quantum Communications Hub and the Integrated Quantum Networks Hub.
Watch the deployment of the satellite from the live stream of the Transporter 16 launch using the Falcon-9 rocket by Space-X HERE 
A picture of the University of Bristol Payload which is now in a 500km orbit around the earth aboard the SPOQC satellite.
A picture of the University of Bristol mobile optical ground station that works as a receiver for the photons from the polarisation encoded photons sent by SPOQC.