Abstract
We present a programme for establishing the space worthiness of highly-miniaturised, polarisation-entangled, photon pair sources using CubeSat nanosatellites. Once demonstrated, the photon pair sources can be deployed on more advanced satellites that are equipped with optical links to establish a global space-based quantum key distribution network. In doing so, this work will also bring experimental tests of the overlap between quantum and relativistic regimes closer to realisation.
Highlights
Improvements in quantum computers are increasing the threat to conventional public key encryption
Entanglement-based quantum key distribution (QKD) is one of the possible solutions, providing security that is traceable to fundamental correlations between photons, and reducing the number of trusted components when compared with other systems
To operate on continental and global scales, it is anticipated that future quantum networks would be similar to conventional data networks and employ both fibre-based solutions and links with optical quantum communication satellites
Summary
Improvements in quantum computers are increasing the threat to conventional public key encryption. This is driving the development of new “quantum-safe” encryption techniques [ ]. Entanglement-based quantum key distribution (QKD) is one of the possible solutions, providing security that is traceable to fundamental correlations between photons, and reducing the number of trusted components when compared with other systems. A global, space-based network for distributing entangled photons will enable strong encryption keys to be delivered securely between any two points on Earth. To operate on continental and global scales, it is anticipated that future quantum networks would be similar to conventional data networks and employ both fibre-based solutions (quantum-repeater-equipped) and links with optical quantum communication satellites
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
