Where quantum becomes reality

DLR and the International Year of Quantum 2025

Quantum technologies in space – with very down-to-Earth benefits
Quantum clocks on navigation satellites provide a crucial source of precise timing information – essential for navigation systems, energy grids, communications networks, and even financial transactions.
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Quantum technologies promise more accurate satellite navigation and a unified time signal
In the future, ultra-precise time signals from laser clocks on satellites could enable centimetre-level positioning and enhance global data transmission.
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Quantum computing simulations for developing advanced materials
Quantum computers are expected to be able to simulate atomic structures and interactions with unmatched precision, accelerating the development of novel materials for high-tech applications in industry and everyday life.
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The United Nations has declared 2025 the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Exactly one hundred years ago, physicist Werner Heisenberg proposed the first rigorous formulation of quantum mechanics.

But what precisely are quanta? And how do they relate to aeronautics, space, energy, transport and security? Researchers at the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR) are investigating quantum computers and the practical applications of quantum technologies for the future. Their work ranges from fundamental research to quantum communication and quantum sensors in space. Through the DLR Quantum Computing Initiative (DLR QCI), researchers, industry partners and start-ups are working together to develop prototype quantum computers and explore real-world quantum applications.

Quantum insights – highlights and projects from DLR's research into quantum technologies

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Video: Laser clocks for global accuracy
A new laser clock from DLR has achieved a record level of accuracy for future space clocks. In 30 million years, it would only be one second off. The quantum properties of iodine molecules in a gas cell set the optical clock’s rhythm. In the future, space-qualified laser clocks should enable satellite navigation with centimetre precision and provide a global time standard.
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Quantum on site – events for the quantum year

DLR will participate in numerous exciting events throughout the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Come along and visit us – we look forward to seeing you!

    

23 May 2025

16:00 to 20:00

Ulm

University of Ulm

East Campus

89081 Ulm

Long Night of Science

Get a taste of campus life – with a focus on quantum science

No booking required

23 June 2025

9:00 to 23:00

Munich

KUNST BLOCK BALVE

Friedrich-von-Pauli-Str. 21

80687 Munich

Annual Exchange Forum Quantumcomputing

(AFQC)

Access with registration

24 to 27 June 2025

Tue to Thu: 9:00 to 17:00

Fri: 9:00 to 16:00

Munich

Trade Fair Center

Messe München

Am Messesee 2

81829 Munich

World of Quantum 2025

Trade fair for Quantum Technologies

Access with trade fair ticket

Background articles

Launch of eavesdrop-proof quantum communication in Ulm
January 27, 2025

Launch of eavesdrop-proof quantum communication in Ulm

DLR and Ulm University have successfully started operating a joint quantum communication network. On 27 January 2025, Ulm researchers demonstrated the tap-proof transmission of computer data using Quantum Key Distribution (QKD).

DLR laser clock achieves world-class accuracy
July 23, 2024

DLR laser clock achieves world-class accuracy

A new laser clock from DLR has achieved a record level of accuracy for optical clocks with gas cells: in 30 million years, it would be off by just one second. The quantum properties of iodine molecules determine the rhythm of this laser clock.

DLR at Hannover Messe 2024
April 19, 2024

DLR at Hannover Messe 2024

Under the motto 'Enabling Transformation', the German Aerospace Centre (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR) will be presenting technologies, innovations and transfer projects at Hannover Messe 2024.

Related links

Contact

Jens Mende

Corporate Communications Stuttgart and Ulm
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Corporate Communications
Pfaffenwaldring 38-40, 70569 Stuttgart
Tel: +49 0711 6862-229