Abstract
Long-distance quantum communication with satellites opens a promising avenue for the global secure quantum network and the large-scale test of quantum foundations. Free-space links could provide a better approach because photon loss and decoherence are almost negligible in the atmosphere. But there are still many new challenges. The satellite moves fast and also has rotation and vibration. Besides, the environment of space is also complex. Many scientific research teams from different countries have spent the past decade performing systematic ground tests for satellite-based quantum communications to overcome all these difficulties. The world's first quantum science satellite Micius was launched on 16th August 2016, demonstrating a series of scientific experiments. Since then, many satellite plans have been proposed, making this field into focus. In this chapter, we briefly review the progress in long-distance satellite-based quantum communication, including step-by-step ground-based feasibility studies and developments of the critical technologies required, a series of satellite-ground quantum communication experiments with Micius, and ending with an outlook on the future work that needs to be done to build global-scale practical quantum networks eventually.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call