Q-NETSIM: Hybrid Quantum Network Simulator Research

Q-NETSIM develops a software-based simulator for hybrid terrestrial–space quantum networks, enabling the design, analysis and optimisation of secure, scalable quantum communication and entanglement distribution.

The project at a glance

Start date:

01 Aug 2025
Duration in months:

12
Funding:

European Space Agency
Principal Investigator(s):

Symeon CHATZINOTAS

��Vlog

Q-NETSIM aims to develop a software-based Quantum Information Network simulator for hybrid terrestrial–space quantum communication infrastructures. The project addresses the current lack of integrated simulation tools capable of modelling quantum links across optical fibre, free-space optical channels, satellites, ground stations, quantum repeaters, quantum memories, entanglement sources and detectors within a unified framework. The simulator will support the analysis of key quantum networking use cases, including satellite-assisted entanglement distribution, quantum key distribution, multipartite quantum communication, and future space-enabled Quantum Internet services. The project will first define the technical and user requirements for hybrid Quantum Information Networks, covering security, latency, fidelity, entanglement throughput, quantum bit error rate, reliability, interoperability and technology readiness. It will then establish a technology baseline for terrestrial and space-based quantum links, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) architectures, uplink and downlink trade-offs, quantum memories, single-photon detectors, entangled photon sources, and software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualisation (NFV)-enabled control and orchestration. Building on this baseline, Q-NETSIM will design and implement a modular simulator capable of evaluating dynamic satellite constellations, atmospheric losses, quantum memory decoherence, entanglement routing, entanglement swapping, and network performance under realistic operating conditions. The project will deliver a validated quantum network simulator, supported by comprehensive technical documentation, benchmarking results and a technology roadmap for the future deployment of hybrid Quantum Internet infrastructures. The outcomes will enable the European Space Agency (ESA) and other European stakeholders to assess the feasibility, performance limits and development priorities of space-supported quantum networking systems.