Institute for Satellite Sensing

The IKON Institute for Satellite Sensing, with its headquarters in Istanbul and a department in Zurich, conducts research in the field of the use of quantum technologies and quantum sensors and develops quantum measurement techniques for innovative applications up to prototype maturity. A competence center for terrestrial and space-based quantum innovations is being created. The newly developed quantum sensors are to be used in the areas of “Weather Modification” and “Aerial Firefighting”.

Innovations in quantum technology and quantum sensors can make a major contribution when it comes to solving socially relevant challenges in areas such as climate change, water resources, energy supply, digitization, mobility and security – and open up completely new perspectives in future space missions.

The institute´s primary research objectives are:

1. new developments based on innovative quantum technological processes, which will contribute significantly to the solution of social and technological challenges 
2. novel systems of quantum sensors – e.g. high-precision inertial sensors – for space and terrestrial applications using the entire spectrum of new developments in quantum physics and quantum optics.
3. groundbreaking geodetic applications and advanced reference systems in space and time

From IKON’s point of view, the establishment of the IKON Institute for Satellite Sensing in Istanbul is a great success, since it will establish and anchor quantum technology as a future topic in Istanbul. The institute is building on an excellent research environment. We look forward to the fact that the new institute will make an important contribution to the training of a new generation of quantum engineers.

The activities of the Institute for Satellite Sensing are integrated into IKON-wide projects and collaborations with partners from research and industry in Switzerland, Turkey and the world. The “Optical Frequency Measurement” and “Relativistic Modeling” departments are increasingly collaborating with Zurich’s universities.

Through this bundling of competencies, the institute, the company and the location will jointly develop international radiance in the field of quantum technologies.