The exploitation of quantum physics and of quantum states superposition and entanglement properties for computing applications has been studied since 1980s [1] [2] for their disrupting potential in the evolution of information theory. Although quantum computing is still in its infancy, experiments have been carried out and proto-types have been developed, showing promising results for future commercial applications [3] [4] [5] [6]. Research in both theoretical and practical areas continues at a frantic pace, and many national governments, research institutions and military funding agencies support quantum computing research to develop quantum computers for both civilian and national security purposes, such as cryptanalysis, genetics, drugs and disease research, materials science and design and so on [2]. Thanks to its computing power, the usage of quantum computing capabilities in orbit would bring priceless benefits to space and enable novel methodologies and technologies to improve both on ground and in space applications. On-board cyber-security, satellite AI, advanced autonomous life support systems for human exploration are only few of the domains which could be dramatically boosted by the availability of this technology. The paper discusses an early study about an experimentation of a quantum computer in orbit as a first step for a future fully qualified flight-ready payload. It discusses the major benefits of a flight experimentation, focusing on the one hand on the objectives and the expected benefits that it will bring to the development of the space borne and on-ground technology, on the other hand on the open questions like the effect of microgravity on the architecture of this technology. It analyses the currently available implementation solutions of quantum computers on ground which are currently prototyped (e.g. IBM Q System One), and provides early results on the identified main technical aspects to be considered to improve the technology readiness level. It highlights the most important challenges to be considered in the design and the added value that the space environment will bring as scientific feedback. Finally, it describes possible scenarios and mission profiles analysed and identified as potential hosting platform candidates, focusing on pros and cons of each of them.

An experimental investigation was carried out on the effect of unsteady periodic control on a separated laminar shear layer. Time resolved Particle Image Velocimetry (tr-PIV) was used to characterize a backward-facing step (BFS) flow (Re_h = 3600), periodically perturbed by a nanosecond Dielectric Barrier Discharge (ns-DBD) plasma actuator. Ensemble averaged vector fields indicate a decrease of reattachment length with increasing actuation non-dimensional frequency, reaching a minimum at a St_h = 0.32. Further increase of forcing non-dimensional frequency, up to 0.4, resulted into an increase of the reattachment length, which nevertheless remained shorter than the non-actuated case. Spectral analysis of the fluctuating fields revealed a change of the amplified frequency range for the actuated cases with respect to the base flow. Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) analysis showed that actuation leads to a redistribution of energy among coherent spatial modes. Stability diagrams were calculated from mean velocity field data for each case via Linear Stability Theory (LST). Results indicate that stability of each actuated case changes with respect to the non-actuated case. Moreover, looking into the calculated growth rate for all the cases a more stable flow regime is observed for the cases of most successful reduction in terms of reattachment length. The effect of a pulsed periodic perturbation on the control of a laminar shear layer promotes the development of large structures, i.e. K-H vortices, due to inviscid-viscous interaction. These convect downstream resulting in a mean flow deformation (MFD) which causes a change of stability. New unstable frequencies are excited and promote the redistribution of energy among modes. This ultimately affects the efficiency of actuation in promoting transition from laminar to turbulent flow.