The primary objective of this study is to investigate whether quantum computing (QC) can provide a quantum advantage to Earth observation (EO) applications within a medium to long timeframe (between the next 3-5 to 15 years). Specifically, the study aims to answer the following questions: How can QC enhance EO applications, and what software and hardware developments are required to achieve this quantum advantage? The study is scheduled to last 5 months and will involve multiple activities that will be carried out by its multidisciplinary consortium, comprising partners with different competencies, each a leader in their respective areas. In this way, it will be possible to obtain a broad view ranging from state-of-the-art quantum technologies (with related bottlenecks) and commercial needs to pure research and development of innovative solutions that have the potential to be breakthroughs in EO and beyond. The study is funded by the European Space Agency (ESA).

Final deliverables and executive summary are publicly available.