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AIAA SciTech Forum

Quantum Computing Uses in Aerospace Systems

Fred C. Briggs

Published Jan 3, 2025• 1 citation
Publisher

Abstract

This paper is a general literature survey of recent research and publications that will attempt to answer the question: “What are the uses of quantum computing in aerospace systems.” Quantum computing is still in the very early stages of development and appears to be at a technology readiness level where subcomponents are being tested in a relevant environment. For example, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is planning to send an experiment to the International Space Station that could lead the way to a quantum global network. It will test communication technologies in the harsh environment of space that could enable two quantum computers to securely connect with each other no matter where they were. This paper will reference JPL’s experiment1.and attempt to summarize quantum computing aerospace applications. The use of machine learning algorithms appears to be one of the most significant enablers of quantum computing. Quantum cryptography and cryptanalysis seem to be the most important applications, among many others since our national security and future lunar exploration competitiveness may depend on it.

DOI
10.2514/6.2025-2678

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This paper is a general literature survey of recent research and publications that will attempt to answer the question: “What are the uses of quantum computing in aerospace systems.” Quantum computing is still in the very early stages of development and appears to be at a technology readiness level where subcomponents are being tested in a relevant environment. For example, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is planning to send an experiment to the International Space Station that could lead the way to a quantum global network. It will test communication technologies in the harsh environment of space that could enable two quantum computers to securely connect with each other no matter where they were. This paper will reference JPL’s experiment1.and attempt to summarize quantum computing aerospace applications. The use of machine learning algorithms appears to be one of the most significant enablers of quantum computing. Quantum cryptography and cryptanalysis seem to be the most important applications, among many others since our national security and future lunar exploration competitiveness may depend on it.
Quantum computing is rapidly becoming an invaluable component of aerospace analysis. Selecting a programing language that enables efficient quantum algorithm development and integrates seamlessly with classical simulation tools is essential for translating these capabilities into practice. This paper is a general literature survey of recent research and publications that will attempt to answer the question: What may be appropriate quantum computing software programming language(s) for aerospace applications? What quantum programming language(s) would be suitable for scientific and engineering calculations as FORTRAN was for classical computing? Quantum computing has the potential to make complex aerospace simulations like Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), material, and boundary layer analysis much faster and more efficient. Successful quantum enhancement work has already been completed towards secure quantum space networks, space weather detection and early warning alerts, satellite image processing, and flight path optimization. There is a plethora (thirty-six plus) of quantum computing languages and toolkits today. How do they deal effectively with the unique characteristics of quantum computing like entanglement and the no cloning theory? The differences between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum computing will be discussed and a survey of the current quantum computing software and tools will be presented. A framework for choosing an appropriate quantum programming language for aerospace applications is also provided. Findings from the literature show Python used with the Qiskit platform could be the most useful for aerospace applications.
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Quantum computers have the potential to be transformational for the aerospace industry. However, many aerospace organizations have not considered how this technology will impact their enterprises. Quantum computers are expected to have a greater effect than simply reduce computational runtimes. However, understanding their impact not only requires understanding what quantum computers are capable and incapable of, but can also require re-examining well-established workflows and questioning long-held assumptions. Quantum computation is currently in a stage of rapid maturation. In 2023, a quantum computer demonstrated a computation that goes beyond the capabilities of brute force classical computation. Building upon this, the hardware is rapidly progressing with qubit counts increasing and gate fidelities improving such that a quantum error corrected quantum computer has been announced to arrive in 2029. In parallel, algorithm advancements have decreased hardware requirements, in some cases by orders of magnitude. The result is that first applications are expected in the next few years, and aerospace organizations are advised to become quantum ready now. In the Spring of 2024, representatives from around the US aerospace industry gathered to identify how the expected power of quantum computers may impact the aerospace industry. The outcomes and recommendations from the workshop are summarized in this paper. The paper discusses the current status and trends in quantum computing, the four main application areas of quantum computing (quantum machine learning, search & optimization, chemical & material simulation, and linear algebra), illustrative use case examples from each area, and how these map to challenges in the aerospace industry.
Due to recent advancements in quantum drones, the Internet of Quantum Drones (IoQDs), and Drone-to-Satellite connectivity, several advantages have been anticipated for real-time applications. This work examines quantum computing issues, including quantum data processing, techniques, circuits, and algorithms important for quantum drones or their networks. Here, we discussed the current research trends on quantum computing, quantum-safe computing, or post-quantum cryptography important to quantum networks, followed by the numerous advantages, limitations, future advancements, and research issues connected with quantum technologies, drones, and their network. This work has also prepared a taxonomy of quantum-related areas depending upon the logic of their learning, followed by a review of each of these areas. We review the most recent work over quantum algorithms used in various-quantum-related areas and networks, the role of quantum satellites for drone-based networks and communications, how quantum artificial intelligence and quantum machine learning are important for quantum drones, networks and futuristic applications, quantum attacks, quantum genetic algorithms, and the importance of post-quantum and quantum-safe cryptography. The challenges and research directions in these domains are explored as well. Lastly, this work presents an overview of the current state of knowledge in various promising technologies that are recently found to be important for quantum drones and networks.
Quantum technology is developing so quickly, that there has been intense research for quantum technologies in both academia and industry in recent years.Documents and literature have been created in vast quantities as the capability of quantum computers continues to increase.After an informative introduction and a summary of key achievements and current advancements in the field of quantum computing.The second phase of the quantum revolution known as continuous research and innovation in the hardware, software, and applications of quantum computers further explained.Quantum computing has long theoretical roots, but in recent years, with the development of useful tools and technologies, the research has moved from theory to reality in Quantum Computers, Quantum Networks, Quantum Cryptography, and Quantum Machine Learning.A framework is presented for creating a quantum engineering education program that will satisfy the demands of both academics and research institutions in the world.The Control, electronics, nanofabrication, cryogenic and solid-state technologies, optics, atoms and ions, and a plan for quantum engineering fields that presents an excellent set of opportunities for education research are all used to outline a hands-on training on quantum hardware software and applications.
Quantum computing is at the cutting edge of technological innovation, with the potential to transform a wide array of scientific and practical fields. This literature survey addresses the critical need for a structured understanding of recent advancements and identifies research gaps. It comprehensively reviews recent advancements in quantum computing, emphasizing non-standard architectures, applications in material sciences, and the integration of quantum and classical machine learning models. The survey also examines quantum algorithms for real-time systems, explores cryptographic protocols beyond Shor's algorithm, and discusses resource management in cloud computing. Key findings highlight significant progress in algorithm efficiency, practical applications in 2D materials and topological insulators, and the hybridization of quantum and classical models. Challenges such as scalability, resource optimization, and ethical concerns still remain. This paper guides future research to focus on optimizing algorithms, efficient resource allocation, and enhancing security measures. This work synthesizes current knowledge, guiding future research efforts and contributing to the advancement of the quantum computing research community.