Warsaw-listed quantum infrastructure vendor Creotech Quantum S.A. (GPW: CTQ) has signed a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) to lead an international consortium developing next-generation single-photon detectors. Titled HRQKD (High-Rate Quantum Key Distribution), the €2.33 million ($2.66 million USD) project allocates €1.2 million ($1.37 million USD) directly to Creotech Quantum as prime contractor to design, manufacture, and validate high-sensitivity Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detectors (SNSPDs).
Executed over a 24-month schedule, the initiative advances SNSPD detection hardware from proof-of-concept prototypes to Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL 5), validating operational stability in simulated industrial and space-ground environments. The detectors serve as foundational components for optical ground stations receiving space-to-ground quantum signals across European satellite networks, including EuroQCI, IRIS², ARTES, SAGA, and ScyLight. In addition to QKD cryptographic key reception, the ultra-low-noise SNSPD systems enable high-bandwidth deep-space optical communication where received signals are extremely faint, such as lunar base links and deep-space science probes.
| [ ESA HRQKD Project Architecture & Financial Scope ] | ||
|---|---|---|
| Contract Parameter | Hardware & Technical Scope | Strategic Deployment Scope |
| • Total Value: €2.33 Million • Creotech Share: €1.2 Million • Timeline: 24 Months | • Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detectors (SNSPDs) • Integrated readout electronics & control software • Target Maturity: TRL 5 (Industrial Validation) | • Satellite-to-Ground QKD Networks (EuroQCI, IRIS²) • Deep-space optical laser communications • Defense, telecom, & critical infrastructure links |
Led by CEO Dr. Anna Kamińska, Creotech Quantum acts as consortium lead, overseeing electronics engineering, software architecture, environmental testing, and product roadmap development. Spun out from satellite manufacturer Creotech Instruments, Creotech Quantum leverages specialized electronics production, White Rabbit sub-nanosecond time synchronization, and Sinara/MTCA control systems to support European quantum hardware supply chains.
Review the corporate disclosure on LinkedIn here.
September 25, 2026
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