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Kluwer Academic Publishers eBooks

Practical Quantum Key Distribution Network Based on Stratosphere Platform

Jie Zhu, Guihua Zeng

Published Jan 18, 2006• 0 citations
Publisher

Abstract

A practical quantum key distribution network system based on stratospheric platform is proposed. And the feasibility of stratosphere quantum key distribution network is analyzed. As the length of the quantum communication channel in atmosphere has reached 23.4km, the proposed quantum key distribution network system has good prospects of practical applications.

DOI
10.1007/1-4020-7987-7_28

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A practical quantum key distribution network system based on stratospheric platform is proposed. And the feasibility of stratosphere quantum key distribution network is analyzed. As the length of the quantum communication channel in atmosphere has reached 23.4km, the proposed quantum key distribution network system has good prospects of practical applications.
Abstract This paper presents the feasibility study of deploying quantum key distribution (QKD) from high altitude platforms (HAPs), as a way of securing future communications applications and services. The paper provides a thorough review of the state of the art HAP technologies and summarises the benefits that HAPs can bring to the QKD services. A detailed link budget analysis is presented in the paper to evaluate the feasibility of delivering QKD from stratospheric HAPs flying at 20 km altitude. The results show a generous link budget under most operating conditions which brings the possibility of using diverged beams, thereby simplifying the pointing, acquisition and tracking of the optical system on the HAPs and ground, potentially widening the range of future use cases where QKD could be a viable solution.
This paper presents the feasibility study of deploying Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) from High Altitude Platforms (HAPs), as a way of securing future communications applications and services. The paper provides a thorough review of the state of the art HAP technologies and summarises the benefits that HAPs can bring to the QKD services. A detailed link budget analysis is presented in the paper to evaluate the feasibility of delivering QKD from stratospheric HAPs flying at 20 km altitude. The results show a generous link budget under most operating conditions which brings the possibility of using diverged beams, thereby simplifying the Pointing, Acquisition and Tracking (PAT) of the optical system on the HAPs and ground, potentially widening the range of future use cases where QKD could be a viable solution.
A quantum communication model based on stratospheric platforms is suggested, which may be called stratospheric quantum communication. Assuming the quantum optical signal in the proposed communication model to be entangled photon pairs, the transmission characteristic of photons in such a model is investigated. Especially, the link attenuation of the quantum channel and the feasibility of stratospheric quantum communication are analyzed in detail. Results show that a worldwide quantum communication network based on the stratospheric platform is possible.
Free-space quantum key distribution opens up new possibilities for the development of quantum communication systems, facilitating the deployment of quantum networks in physically hard-to-reach areas and across wide landscapes without the use of optical fibers. This approach overcomes restrictions associated with cable laying and provides a more flexible infrastructure for quantum information transmission. Together with the use of continuous-variable protocols, it becomes possible to organize secure information transfer using optimal scalable communication systems despite deleterious environmental influences. This paper reviews key achievements and technical aspects of implementing continuous-variable quantum key distribution in atmospheric channels, considering the main atmospheric effects such as turbulence, scattering, and beam wandering. We present the current state of continuous-variable quantum key distribution systems in free space and their practical implementations, including successful experimental projects and prototypes. Prospects for further development, including integration with existing telecommunications networks and potential application areas, are discussed.
Subject of study. This study examined the applicability of quantum key distribution (QKD) technology under free-space atmospheric conditions. Aim of study. The objective was the development of a hardware and software system for investigating the applicability of QKD technology in wireless communication systems based on commercially available modules. The system includes optical blocks for atmospheric optical communication and a training setup for studying QKD in fiber-optic communication lines. Method. The characteristics of a quantum communication channel in free-space conditions were studied through experiments. The channel was formed by the QKD units of the EMQOS 1.0 scientific and educational complex, integrated with optical blocks for atmospheric optical communication. The systems were also upgraded to minimize losses in the quantum channel. Main results. A hardware and software system was developed, within which the transmission of a quantum key through free-space atmospheric conditions over a distance of 180 m was successfully demonstrated. The quantum bit error rate did not exceed 6%. This system enabled the study of the effects of weather conditions on optical losses in the quantum communication channel and the quantum key generation rate. Practical significance. The developed hardware and software system allows the monitoring of the parameters of both classical and quantum communication channels in free space under various weather conditions. Its modular structure enables the integration of other quantum equipment for comparative testing of the performance of quantum communication systems under real atmospheric transmission conditions.
In recent decades researches of quantum cryptography has become one of the most promising area in the field of information security. Quantum key distribution (QKD) provides reliable methods for exchanging keys using the principles of quantum mechanics, ensuring a high level of security in data transmission. Of particular interest is the application of QKD in space communications, where communication channels can cover significant distances - from Earth to satellites. The most promising waveband for quantum communications and cryptography now is subterahertz (sub-THz) frequency range from 100 GHz to 1 THz. The influence of the atmosphere on the efficiency of quantum key distribution is essential for this waveband. The report provides an overview of the influence of the atmosphere on quantum key distribution within sub- THz frequency range. The advantages and disadvantages are analyzed, as well as solutions for increasing the efficiency of quantum key distribution.