EAGLE-1 target: European satellite QKD validation
EAGLE-1 is intended to validate European satellite QKD technologies from low Earth orbit and feed mission data into the future EuroQCI secure-connectivity architecture.
- Team / system
- ESA · European Commission · SES-led consortium
- Link geometry
- LEO-to-European optical ground stations
- Platform
- EAGLE-1 quantum-key-distribution satellite
- Year / programme
- Late 2026 / early 2027
01 · SYSTEM
Target architecture
The mission combines a European quantum-key payload, optical ground terminals and an operational validation campaign. ESA states that the satellite is due to launch in late 2026 or early 2027, followed by initial tests and three years of in-orbit validation.
02 · EVIDENCE
Evidence snapshot
- 01
Launch due in late 2026 or early 2027 according to ESA.
- 02
Three years of in-orbit validation planned after initial testing.
- 03
More than 20 European companies participate in the SES-led consortium.
03 · SIGNIFICANCE
Why it matters
EAGLE-1 is positioned as a bridge between research demonstrations and sovereign European quantum-secure infrastructure.
05 · REFERENCES
Sources & references
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