Application of Quantum Communication Technology in Space System

Rupert Ursin, Felix Tiefenbacher, Thomas D. Jennewein +1 more

XU Xiao-fan

Quantum Communication technology, which achieved many unprecedented breakthroughs in the past several years,is arousing the attentions from related authoritative bodies and the field of communication research with its particular characteristic of perfect security in information transmission. Firstly, in this paper, the course of development and milestones of quantum communication theory and technologies are reviewed. And the state-of-the-art of domestic and foreign quantum communication technologies are summarized, with the conclusion that the technology tends to be mature, and China stands in the front row of the world both in quantum communication theory and experiments. Then, the definition and model of the ideal quantum communication system are discussed and engineering scenarios of quantum communication system based on optical fiber channel and free space optical channel are provided. The security and communication ability now achieved by these scenarios are analyzed, drawing such conclusion that quantum communication technologies has both high practical value and broad development space. Finally, realistic application scenarios and future application prospect of quantum communication technology are presented, in consideration of the requirements and current technology levels.

F.J. Duarte, T S Taylor

Davide Venturelli, Filip Wudarski

Abstract Quantum technologies are becoming increasingly significant in space applications and defense. Quantum communication offers secure methods for data transmission, which have already been demonstrated in Earth-to-satellite links, paving the way for advanced communication systems and quantum networks. Quantum sensing is expected to play a vital role in GPS-denied navigation and precise Earth measurements on space stations and satellites. This chapter reviews the latest advancements in quantum communication and quantum sensing for space applications and explores their future developments and potential impact.

Kirill Yu. Erokhin, Sergey Yu. Kazantsev, T. V. Kazieva +2 more

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.

Bongs, Kai