Quantum Explorer Brings Quantum Technologies To The Classroom
06 October, 2026
Through the FFG-funded Quantum Explorer project, hands-on educational programs were developed to help students of all ages experience quantum technologies and photonics firsthand.
The three-year project Quantum Explorer – Quantum Experiments for Schools, which was carried out from September 2023 to August 2026 as part of the FFG’s “Talente regional” initiative, was dedicated to addressing precisely this question.
Under the project leadership of Albert Huber from UAS Technikum Wien, the UAS Technikum Wien, Photonics Austria, the FH Vorarlberg, the Graz University of Technology (TU Graz), and partners from the Austrian quantum technology community worked together to present quantum physics in a practical and understandable way for schools.
From Photonics Explorer to Quantum Explorer
The starting point was the already successfully implemented Photonics Explorer, which allows students to investigate fundamental phenomena of light, optics, and photonics on their own.
In the project, this concept was systematically further developed toward quantum technologies. Frank Reil played a central role in this effort, bearing primary responsibility for the development of the teaching materials and practical experiments. Building on many years of experience with the Photonics Explorer, new experimental setups, instructions, and didactic concepts were created to make complex quantum physics concepts tangible.
Using lasers, mirrors, beam splitters, polarizers, and other optical components, students can now, among other things, build Michelson and Mach–Zehnder interferometers and understand concepts such as the quantum eraser or quantum key distribution based on the BB84 principle.
Jointly Developed and Tested
In addition to developing the experimental materials, practical testing was an essential component of the project. The developed content was used in workshops with students and supplemented by teacher training sessions.
UAS Technikum Wien coordinated the project and contributed its didactic and technical expertise in particular. FH Vorarlberg and Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) complemented the project with scientific expertise and regional educational activities.
As a technology platform, Photonics Austria provided support, particularly in facilitating networking among the participating stakeholders and fostering knowledge transfer between research, education, and the photonics community. The platform has been supporting the use of the Photonics Explorer in Austria for many years.
A Sustainable Outcome for Schools
With the project’s completion, a practical educational program is now available that can be used well beyond the project’s duration. The Quantum Explorer makes it possible not only to teach quantum physics theoretically but also to make it a hands-on experience.
In this way, the project impressively demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration between universities, technology platforms, experts, and companies: a shared tool that introduces young people to photonics and quantum technologies at an early age.
Quantum Explorer Project
· Duration: September 2023 to August 2026
· Funding: FFG – Talente regional
· Project Leader: UAS Technikum Wien, Albert Huber
· Developer: Frank Reil
· Project Partners: UAS Technikum Wien, Photonics Austria, FH Vorarlberg, Graz University of Technology (TU Graz), and partners from the field of quantum technologies
· Focus: Educational programs and experiments on photonics and quantum technologies for schools
Pictured: Focus on fundamental phenomena of light, optics, and photonics.
Photo credit: Frank Reil