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Drone-Based Quantum Key Distribution

Roderick Cochran, Andrew Conrad, Samantha Isaac, Daniel Sanchez-Rosales, Timur Javid, Paul G. Kwiat, Daniel J. Gauthier

Published Jan 1, 2023• 5 citations
Publisher

Abstract

Quantum networks between mobile platforms enable secure communication, distributed quantum sensors, and quantum computing networks. Here we present data from a quantum key distribution system between two aerial drones separated by 10 m.
DOI
10.1364/cleo_at.2023.am3n.7

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Quantum key distribution is a well-established approach for sharing a classical key between two parties. In most cases, the parties are at fixed locations and use an optical fiber or free-space channel with fixed telescopes. To enable flexible and mobile quantum key distribution applications, we are developing a drone-based system. Here, the entire quantum transmitter and receiver system must have low size, weight, and power so that it can fly on medium-scale drones (Group 2, 21-55 lb gross takeoff weight). We will describe these key technologies and our current progress on achieving secure key exchange between drones.
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