Showing 1–2 of 2 results for author: Schuh, H

The QTF-Backbone: Proposal for a Nationwide Optical Fibre Backbone in Germany for Quantum Technology and Time and Frequency Metrology

Authors: Tara Cubel Liebisch, Peter Kaufmann, Harald Schnatz, Susanne Naegele-Jackson, Jochen Kronjäger, Klaus Blaum, Stefan Kück, Dieter Meschede, Stephan Schiller, Laura Agazzi, Soroosh Alighanbari, Joachim Ankerhold, Georgy V. Astakhov, Stefanie Barz, Ingo Baumann, Rainer Baumgart, Christoph Becher, Hendrik Bekker, Oliver Benson, Paolo Bianco, Ronald Bieber, Immanuel Bloch, Ulrike Blumröder, Rainer Bockholt, Johannes Bouman , et al. (144 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The recent breakthroughs in the distribution of quantum information and high-precision time and frequency (T&F) signals over long-haul optical fibre networks have transformative potential for physically secure communications, resilience of timing infrastructure (such as that supporting Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)) and fundamental physics. To date, these capabilities remain confined… ▽ More The recent breakthroughs in the distribution of quantum information and high-precision time and frequency (T&F) signals over long-haul optical fibre networks have transformative potential for physically secure communications, resilience of timing infrastructure (such as that supporting Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)) and fundamental physics. To date, these capabilities remain confined to isolated testbeds, with quantum and T&F signals accessible, for example in Germany, to only a few institutions. In this white paper we propose the QTF Backbone: a dedicated national fibre-optic infrastructure in Germany for the networked distribution of Quantum and T&F signals using dark fibres and specialised hardware. The QTF Backbone is planned as a four-phase deployment over ten years to ensure scalable, sustainable access for research institutions and industry. The concept builds on successful demonstrations of time and frequency distribution at high Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) across Europe, including PTB-MPQ links in Germany, REFIMEVE in France, and the Italian LIFT network. The QTF Backbone will enable transformative Research and Development (R&D), support a nationwide QTF ecosystem, and ensure the transition from innovation to deployment. As a national and European hub, it will position Germany and Europe at the forefront of quantum networking, as well as T&F transfer. △ Less

Submitted 16 August, 2026; v1 submitted 4 June, 2025; originally announced June 2025.

Comments: 60 pages, 7 figures This version of the article has been accepted for publication, after peer review (when applicable) but is not the Version of Record and does not reflect post-acceptance improvements, or any corrections. The Version of Record is available online at: https://doi.org/10.1140/epjs/s11734-026-02451-3

Journal ref: Liebisch, T.C., Kaufmann, P., Schnatz, H. et al. The QTF Backbone: proposal for a nationwide optical fibre backbone in Germany for quantum technology and time and frequency metrology. Eur. Phys. J. Spec. Top. 235, 3353-3387 (2026)

Interaction between celestial and terrestrial reference frames and some considerations for the next VLBI-based ICRF

Authors: Zinovy Malkin, Harald Schuh, Chopo Ma, Sebastien Lambert

Abstract: In this paper we outline several problems related to the realization of the international celestial and terrestrial reference frames ICRF and ITRF at the millimeter level of accuracy, with emphasis on ICRF issues. The main topics considered are: analysis of the current status of the ICRF, mutual impact of ICRF and ITRF, and some considerations for future ICRF realizations. In this paper we outline several problems related to the realization of the international celestial and terrestrial reference frames ICRF and ITRF at the millimeter level of accuracy, with emphasis on ICRF issues. The main topics considered are: analysis of the current status of the ICRF, mutual impact of ICRF and ITRF, and some considerations for future ICRF realizations. △ Less

Submitted 9 June, 2014; originally announced June 2014.

Comments: Presented at the Journees 2011: Earth rotation, reference systems and celestial mechanics: Synergies of geodesy and astronomy, Vienna, Austria, Sep 19-21

Journal ref: Proc. Journees 2011: Earth rotation, reference systems and celestial mechanics: Synergies of geodesy and astronomy, Vienna, Austria, Sep 19-21, Vienna: Vienna University of Technology, 2012, 66-69