IDQ’s single-photon technologies chosen by ArianeGroup
ID Quantique supplies high-reliability single-photon technologies to Ariane 6, the next generation of Launcher built by ArianeGroup under a programme funded by the European Space Agency (ESA). ArianeGroup is a prime contractor and design authority for Ariane 6.
“We are very happy to work with ArianeGroup and the European Space Agency on the Ariane 6 programme. This is a great accomplishment for the company and the division, and is a result of a long-term strategy to diversify activities in different markets and to be positioned as solutions provider.” declares Michael Desert – VP Single-Photon Systems at ID Quantique.
The technologies developed under this Ariane 6 programme require the highest level of performance and reliability, for which ID Quantique’s single-photon systems have been selected: the ID281 single-photon detector, ID900 Time Controller with its OTDR package and ID300 Laser.
“To be competitive on new applications, the division needed a real breakthrough that could lead us to provide plug and play solutions.” says Bruno Sanguinetti – Product Manager Single-Photon Systems at ID Quantique, “The Time-Controller helped us create a concrete solution in terms of OTDR application with extra benefits. The device also allows us to quickly develop a set-up where the synchronization of light emission, detection and positioning system is essential, like TCSPC or lidar….”
This collaboration reinforces ID Quantique’s experience in the space sector and guarantees the long-term support of our products.
“Single-photon technologies are a crucial asset for high-performance OTDR. They provide ultra-fast acquisition time, a high dynamic range and an excellent spatial resolution.” adds Félix Bussières – Senior Scientist and Team Leader at ID Quantique. “In particular, superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors are essential here to properly address the stringent requirements of this application. Both IDQ and Ariane Group will benefit from their respective expertise to further develop and deploy superconducting detector systems in an industrial environment.”
About the European Space Agency
The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
ESA is an international organisation with 22 Member States. By coordinating the financial and intellectual resources of its members, it can undertake programmes and activities far beyond the scope of any single European country.
For more information, visit www.esa.int
