Heriot-Watt University

The Quantum Communications Hub Optical Ground Station (HOGS) aims to be a flexible optical ground station for researchers and innovators in satellite-based optical and quantum communications. The EPSRC Quantum Communications Hub funded it as part of its satellite work package, which will launch a satellite (SPOQC - Space Platform for Optical Quantum Communications) in 2025. Further funding will enable engagement in other missions.

Beyond communications, the system will be used for space-situational awareness and astrophotonics.

Black belt in quantum technology, white belt in astronomy and space

My story with Baader goes back to 2017/18, when I started my academic career in satellite-based quantum communications. I, alongside colleagues, were preparing a grant proposal for a project to fund a ground and space segment to conduct research. At this point, let me highlight that while my colleagues and I are very knowledgeable in photonics and quantum technologies, we are complete amateurs in space and astronomy, meaning our knowledge of telescopes and domes was very low. The head of the company took the time to discuss the ground segment with us, going over the history, benefits, and capabilities of the company's offering. From that initial call, I knew this was the team that would supply us with our dome system.

After the proposal submission, it wasn't until 2019 that we returned to conversations, where the Baader team were very patient with the academic processes for ordering. Finally, we ordered the system in 2021, but with COVID and other delays, we had to delay the delivery of the system until 2023. Baader accommodated the delay by temporarily storing the system at their site.

Due to our delays with the site development, it wasn't until late 2024 that the dome installation took place. The installation team was fantastic and accommodated all our local processes that delayed work starting. The installation was efficient, and training was provided during the handover process.

We have had the system installed for just over a month at the time of writing, and it is a fantastic space to take visitors and conduct work.

Overall, I would highly recommend the Baader systems to those new and experienced. One often under-appreciated value is the product quality and the team involved in the process from order to fabrication to shipping to installation. While other options available to me would have been cheaper, I have seen first-hand the quality of the service/product for teams going down those "money-saving" routes.

I want to highlight my thanks to the Baader team involved. I would 100% go for the system again (and hope to!)
Dr. Ross Donaldson – Associate Professor