ARQUIMEA completes manufacturing of the structural and thermal test model for the QKD-GEO payload

• ARQUIMEA completes manufacturing of the structural and thermal test model for the QKD-GEO payload and moves into the validation and testing phase
• The program, led by Thales Alenia Space, will strengthen Spain’s technological sovereignty in secure communications
• The QKD-GEO project is an initiative of the Spanish Secretary of State for Telecommunications and Digital Infrastructures, whose contracting is managed by Spain’s Center for Technological Development and Innovation (CDTI)

Madrid, 17 March, 2026. ARQUIMEA, a technology company specializing in the space sector with more than 20 years of experience, has completed the test model of the structure and thermal system for the QKD-GEO geostationary quantum key distribution payload.

This project, led by Thales Alenia Space, aims to develop Spain’s first geostationary satellite system for quantum key distribution (QKD).

ARQUIMEA was selected by Thales Alenia Space to design and manufacture the full structural model and thermal system for the quantum communications payload. The completion of the system’s test model marks a new milestone and opens the door to the validation and testing phase.

The thermal structure of the geostationary system includes the main panel, radiator panel, heat pipes, and thermal hardware such as thermal blankets. ARQUIMEA’s contribution covers the design, manufacturing, integration, and verification of the satellite’s key thermal elements. All these components are essential to ensure proper satellite performance under the extreme conditions of space.

This achivement represents a decisive step forward in the development of space infrastructure aimed at enhacing communications security through quantum technologies.

The QKD-GEO project seeks to enable ultra-secure communications by generating and distributing cryptographic keys based on the principles of quantum physics, allowing any attempt to intercept the signal to be detected.

The solution designed by Thales Alenia Space in collaboration with Hispasat is based on a geostationary (GEO) space architecture, enabling the transmission of quantum keys over long distances with significantly greater stability and coverage than current terrestrial networks.

With over 20 years of experience in the space sector and participation in over 180 missions, ARQUIMEA has established itself as a key player, applying advanced engineering capabilities and high-performance materials expertise. The company combines cutting-edge technical capabilities, specialized know-how and unique facilities to adress highly complex technological developments.

This program positions Spain at the forefront of secure communication technologies and reinforces its strategic autonomy in a critical domain.

With the support of: