DragonSat
Defence Quantum

DragonSat is a defence-focused PocketQube mission designed to mature and validate secure, space-based quantum communications capabilities for national security applications.

Our Team

Flight Validation of Secure Quantum Communications for Defence

DragonSat advances defence-grade quantum communications by validating critical quantum optics subsystems in orbit. Built on a 1.5P PocketQube platform, the mission is designed to characterise quantum state stability, photon integrity, and system resilience under real orbital conditions. These flight results directly support the development of trusted-node quantum satellite architectures and secure space communications networks for defence and government users.

Defence-Grade Quantum Communications Payload

The payload prepatlas, transmits, and measures quantum states with high precision while operating within the constraints of a PocketQube platform. Onboard processing supports secure data handling and real-time performance assessment, while a resilient power subsystem ensures continuous operation throughout the mission. The results directly inform the design of sovereign, trusted-node quantum satellite payloads for secure national communications infrastructure.

Power and Computing Systems for Defence‑Grade DragonSat Operations

DragonSat is equipped with a mission‑critical power subsystem engineered for secure and sustained operations in the space domain. Its triple‑junction GaAs solar panels achieve ~30% efficiency, generating approximately 1 W of power depending on sunlight exposure, ensuring consistent energy supply for defence payloads. A robust Li‑Po/Li‑Ion battery with a 1000 mAh capacity (~3.7 Wh) provides reliable energy storage, while the Power Distribution Unit (PDU) delivers regulated 3.3 V and 5 V outputs to support sensitive communications and control systems. Integrated Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology optimises energy harvesting for long‑duration missions, maintaining operational readiness and resilience in both peacetime and contested orbital environments.

Defence Quantum Communications Mission

A pioneering PocketQube mission advancing secure, space-based quantum communications for
national security and defence applications.

In-Orbit Quantum Validation

Testing quantum systems where it matters most

DragonSat validates quantum optics subsystems in real orbital conditions to assess performance beyond the lab.

Photon Integrity & State Stability

Ensuring precision at the quantum level

The mission characterises quantum state stability and photon integrity to support reliable, secure data transmission.

Enabling Secure Space Networks

Building the future of trusted communications

Flight results directly inform the development of defence-grade quantum satellite architectures and trusted-node networks.

Onboard Computing and Mission Assurance

For onboard computing and data handling, DragonSat is equipped with an ARM Cortex‑M4 or RISC‑V‑based microcontroller, operating at ~100–200 MHz and paired with 512 KB RAM and 8 MB Flash storage, with optional SD card expansion. The system runs on a Real‑Time OS (RTOS) or custom firmware, supporting I²C, SPI, UART, and GPIO interfaces for secure communication and precision control. To ensure mission assurance, the satellite features a watchdog timer and reset mechanisms for redundancy and fault tolerance, maintaining uninterrupted operation in the harsh and contested conditions of space.

A PocketQube Engineered for Defence and the Future

DragonSat is a pioneering PocketQube satellite designed to deliver sovereign capability in the rapidly evolving space domain. This flagship mission unites defence innovators, research institutions, and strategic industry partners to push the boundaries of secure, space‑based quantum communications. Built for cutting‑edge experiments in quantum entanglement and coherence within the microgravity environment of low Earth orbit, DragonSat will generate critical insights to advance encrypted quantum networks. These outcomes will lay the foundation for next‑generation, space‑based communications technologies that enhance national security, operational resilience, and strategic advantage in contested environments.

Deployable Antenna System for Secure, Mission‑Critical Data Transmission

DragonSat’s payload data downlink operates at 1.2 kb/s via UHF frequencies, delivering a continuous, assured stream of mission‑critical data from orbit to authorised ground control. Optimised for the secure transfer of quantum experiment results, including measurements of entanglement and coherence, this link ensures that essential intelligence can be relayed in real‑time or at scheduled intervals to support defence and national security objectives. The deployable dipole antenna and robust transceiver architecture provide reliable performance in contested and degraded space environments, while advanced error‑correction protocols safeguard data integrity. By maintaining a low data rate, the system minimises power consumption, enhancing overall energy efficiency and ensuring sustained operational readiness throughout the mission.

DragonSatDefence Quantum