European Space Agency selects UCD spin-out Equal1’s quantum tech for Earth Observation
11 November 2025
Quantum computing startup (opens in a new window)Equal1, an Irish spin-out of University College Dublin, has been chosen by the (opens in a new window)European Space Agency (ESA) to install a cutting-edge Hybrid Quantum Computing (HQC) System to further understand the planet as part of its Earth Observation programmes.
The partnership will bring Equal1's advanced Bell-1 Quantum Computer to ESA and see the installation of a HQC at the agency’s Φ-lab as part of its Quantum Computing for EO (QC4EO) initiative.
“This is an exciting and significant moment for us at ESA’s Earth Observation Programmes, marking a major advancement in our mission to monitor our planet,” said Simonetta Cheli, Director of ESA’s Earth Observation Programmes and Head of its Centre for Earth Observation.
“The complexities of Earth Observation data, from environmental monitoring to disaster response, require unprecedented processing power, and we are thrilled that this collaboration between Equal1 and ESA could pave the way for hosting the first quantum computer at ESA.”
The Earth Observation programmes generate vast amounts of data, essential for climate modelling, weather forecasting, disaster monitoring, and precise image analysis.
Classical computing, while powerful, faces limitations in processing these increasingly complex datasets. HQC, which combines the strengths of quantum processors with traditional high-performance computing, offers a promising pathway to overcome these challenges.
Equal1's Bell-1 Quantum Computer, a 6-qubit system, will serve as the core quantum processing unit. Its rack-mounted design integrated closed-cycle cryocooler, and low power consumption make it ideal for deployment within ESA's existing infrastructure.
With the integration of the Bell-1 Quantum Computer into their systems, ESA scientists will be able to explore quantum algorithms for applications such as Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) raw data processing and mission planning for satellite constellations, demonstrating theoretical and practical advantages over purely classical methods.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with the European Space Agency on this transformative project,” said Jason Lynch, CEO, Equal1.
“Our Bell-1 Quantum Computer, designed for seamless integration into existing HPC environments, is perfectly suited to augment ESA’s capabilities. This collaboration underscores our shared vision of making quantum computing a powerful tool for accelerating complex data centre workloads, especially in vital areas like Earth Observation.”
Equal1 brings a unique blend of technological innovation and deep expertise to this collaboration, making it an ideal partner for ESA’s ambitious quantum computing goals.
Future versions of its designs will integrate both quantum and classical computing hardware on the same chip, potentially enabling novel features like real-time quantum error detection and correction.
This continuous innovation will be crucial for unlocking the full potential of quantum computing for complex Earth Observation challenges.
“Our vision is to provide practical, scalable quantum computing that can be readily adopted by organisations like ESA,” added Brendan Barry, CTO, Equal1.
With offices at NexusUCD in Dublin, and in US, Canada, Romania, and the Netherlands, Equal1 currently employs 45 people.
Its investors include Atlantic Bridge, Enterprise Ireland, European Innovation Council, Matterwave Ventures and 808 Ventures.
By: David Kearns, Digital Journalist / Media Officer, UCD University Relations (with materials from Micéal Whelan, UCD Research and Innovation)
To contact the UCD News & Content Team, email: newsdesk@ucd.ie
