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arXiv:2406.14166 · Advanced Quantum Technologies

Discrete‐Modulated Continuous‐Variable Quantum Key Distribution in Satellite‐to‐Ground Communication

Shi‐Gen Li, Chenlong Li, Wen‐Bo Liu, Hua‐Lei Yin, Zeng‐Bing Chen

Published Jun 19, 2024• 9 citations
arXivHTMLPDF

Abstract

Abstract Satellite‐to‐ground quantum communication constitutes the cornerstone of the global quantum network, heralding the advent of the future of quantum information. Continuous‐variable quantum key distribution is a strong candidate for the space‐ground quantum communication due to its simplicity, stability, and ease of implementation, especially for the robustness of space background light noise. Recently, the discrete‐modulated continuous‐variable protocol has garnered increased attention, owing to its lower implementation requirements, acceptable security key rate, and pronounced compatibility with extant infrastructures. Here, key rates are derived for discrete‐modulated continuous‐variable quantum key distribution protocols in free‐space channel environments across various conditions through numerical simulation, revealing the viability of its application in satellite‐to‐ground communication.

DOI
10.1002/qute.202400140

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Abstract Satellite‐to‐ground quantum communication constitutes the cornerstone of the global quantum network, heralding the advent of the future of quantum information. Continuous‐variable quantum key distribution is a strong candidate for the space‐ground quantum communication due to its simplicity, stability, and ease of implementation, especially for the robustness of space background light noise. Recently, the discrete‐modulated continuous‐variable protocol has garnered increased attention, owing to its lower implementation requirements, acceptable security key rate, and pronounced compatibility with extant infrastructures. Here, key rates are derived for discrete‐modulated continuous‐variable quantum key distribution protocols in free‐space channel environments across various conditions through numerical simulation, revealing the viability of its application in satellite‐to‐ground communication.
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Continuous variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) has emerged as a promising candidate for quantum-secure communication due to its experimentally demonstrated high key rates in fiber-optic channels. However, the feasibility of discrete modulation CV-QKD in satellite-to-ground downlinks remains an open question due to practical challenges such as high transmission loss, limited communication windows, and atmospheric turbulence. In this work, a comprehensive framework is proposed to evaluate the feasibility of discrete modulation CV-QKD by integrating orbital dynamics and atmospheric channel models, and to comprehensively analyze the influence of the parameter space on free-space discrete modulation CV-QKD. To achieve this, a free-space CV-QKD simulation platform is employed, which calculates the elevation angle and transmission distance based on precise orbital models, thereby providing a more practical assessment of the key rate for discrete modulation CV-QKD. Simulation results verify the feasibility and practicality of discrete modulation CV-QKD in satellite-based quantum communication systems. Furthermore, the critical factors influencing the key rate performance are identified, and parameter optimization strategies are proposed, providing theoretical support for realizing the future satellite-to-ground discrete modulation CV-QKD.
Continuous variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) uses the continuous quadratures of light to share a secret key between a transmitter and receiver. The presence of an eavesdropper can be detected by fundamental quantum mechanics. Compared to the more established discrete variable QKD, CVQKD uses more cost-effective homodyne detectors which are more compatible with current telecommunication technologies. In a future global quantum network, CVQKD could be used to ensure the secure exchange of information. In this work, the feasibility of a variety of CVQKD protocols in different channels that could be used to establish a global quantum network are studied. These are the Gaussian modulated and discrete modulated CVQKD protocols for satellite to optical ground station downlinks and uplinks for Earth-space connections, inter-satellite links for space connections, satellite to ship and underwater links for maritime connections, and fibre network links for terrestrial connections. Secret key distribution between continents and various regions is simulated while accounting for the different adverse effects associated with each link. The combination of these connections with routing and scheduling ensures inter-continental high-speed information exchange with unconditional security that is required to achieve the goal of a global quantum network.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) offers unconditional security in principle. Many QKD protocols have been proposed and demonstrated to ensure secure communication between two authenticated users. Continuous variable (CV) QKD offers many advantages over discrete variable (DV) QKD since it is cost-effective, compatible with current classical communication technologies, efficient even in daylight, and gives a higher secure key rate. Keeping this in view, we demonstrate a discrete modulated CVQKD protocol in the free space which is robust against polarization drift. We also present the simulation results with a noise model to account for the channel noise and the effects of various parameter changes on the secure key rate. These simulation results help us to verify the experimental values obtained for the implemented CVQKD.
Satellite-based quantum communications represent a critical advancement in the pursuit of secure, global-scale quantum networks. Leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics, these systems offer unparalleled security through Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and other quantum communication protocols. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of satellite-based quantum communications, focusing on the evolution from terrestrial to space-based systems. We explore the distinct advantages and challenges of discrete-variable (DV) and continuous-variable (CV) quantum communication technologies in the context of satellite deployments. The paper also discusses key milestones such as the successful implementation of quantum communication via the Micius satellite and outlines the primary challenges, including atmospheric turbulence and the development of quantum repeaters, that must be addressed to achieve a global quantum internet. This review aims to consolidate recent advancements in the field, providing insights and perspectives on the future directions and potential innovations that will drive the continued evolution of satellite-based quantum communications.
Quantum key distribution can be used to share secret keys with information-theoretic security between two legitimate partners for secure communication. In the case of satellite communication, free-space channel is the only way to transmit information, thus research on its properties is of great significance to quantum cryptographic communication. In this paper, we thoroughly analyze the influence of free-space channel fading effects on continuous variable quantum key distribution and for the first time prove that random distribution (such as Rayleigh distribution, Rice distribution and et al.) of free-space channel fading coefficients can be used to increase secret information rates and improve system stability against excess noises. Our results offer academic reference for practical applications of ground-space and space-space quantum communication and global quantum communication network.