Collaborative Research: VINES: Track 1: Next-G hybrid free-space and optical fiber quantum networks

NextG networks will deliver capabilities far beyond those envisioned for emerging 6G systems. A key enabler of this revolution is the integration of quantum technologies into coming NextG networks. This collaborative project will lay the foundations for a quantum-enabled NextG architecture capable of distributing entanglement across satellite and terrestrial platforms for quantum communications, distributed information processing, and sensing applications. The proposed architecture features a satellite backbone that distributes entanglement to terrestrial regional stations and networks, connecting mobile and fixed users via free-space and fiber-optic links. The project aims to develop a full-stack approach spanning physical-layer, networking architectures, and control algorithms. Research activities have three interconnected thrusts: 1) development of a scalable global quantum satellite network connecting a collection of regional networks through a carefully placed set of ground stations; 2) design of routing, scheduling, and resource allocation algorithms that account for mobility, free-space and fiber links, and unmanned aerial vehicles; 3) development of integrated quantum photonic hardware for high-rate entanglement generation and distribution appropriate for both space and terrestrial use. Architecture validation will occur on a three-node testbed comprising chip-based entanglement sources, switches fiber optical links, and free space optical links. The project will advance the development of practical quantum networking technologies and accelerate their transition into the future communication ecosystem. The resulting knowledge will improve understanding of how quantum and classical resources can coexist and be jointly optimized within large-scale networked systems. Educational activities will provide interdisciplinary training opportunities in quantum information science and engineering, photonics, and networking. The project will contribute to the development of a highly skilled workforce and strengthen the United States leadership and competitiveness in quantum communications, networking, and information technologies. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.