Abstract
Quantum Technologies (QT), and their use in space applications, are potentially
transformative innovations with fundamental implications for society and the global
economy. A new era of QT is emerging in the space domain, with a range of space
missions already carrying quantum cryptography payloads. Both the quantum and
space domains have evolved as strategically important technology sectors that address
some of the major challenges of the modern digital era, and now they are being used
inter-operatively. The paper analyses the intersections between these two sectors. It
highlights legal and regulatory issues to be considered at this relatively early stage of
‘quantum technology for space’, in particular cybersecurity, data transfer protection
and liability. As quantum cryptography becomes increasingly important, it is necessary
to assess the extent to which those quantum systems utilised in space missions will
comply with applicable cybersecurity regulations, current encryption standards, as well
as data transfer and protection regulations. The paper also examines the applicability
of the UN Space Treaties.
transformative innovations with fundamental implications for society and the global
economy. A new era of QT is emerging in the space domain, with a range of space
missions already carrying quantum cryptography payloads. Both the quantum and
space domains have evolved as strategically important technology sectors that address
some of the major challenges of the modern digital era, and now they are being used
inter-operatively. The paper analyses the intersections between these two sectors. It
highlights legal and regulatory issues to be considered at this relatively early stage of
‘quantum technology for space’, in particular cybersecurity, data transfer protection
and liability. As quantum cryptography becomes increasingly important, it is necessary
to assess the extent to which those quantum systems utilised in space missions will
comply with applicable cybersecurity regulations, current encryption standards, as well
as data transfer and protection regulations. The paper also examines the applicability
of the UN Space Treaties.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Proceedings of the International Institute of Space Law |
| Editors | P.J. Blount, Tanja Masson-Zwaan, Rafael Moro-Aguilar, Kai-Uwe Schrogl |
| Publisher | Eleven International Publishing |
| Pages | 239-254 |
| Number of pages | 16 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9789400114845 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9789047302391 |
| Publication status | Published - 2025 |
| Externally published | Yes |