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Photonics for Quantum (PfQ)

A reconfigurable multi-user quantum network with ground to space link

Stephane Vinet, Thomas D. Jennewein, Ramy Tannous

Published Aug 2, 2024• 0 citations
Publisher

Abstract

We present a satellite-compatible reconfigurable quantum network architecture. During the satellite-pass the network adopts a point-to-multipoint topology where all the users communicate with the satellite, whereas outside of a satellite pass, the signal is rerouted to form a fully-connected network between the ground users. Exploiting multiplexing techniques, we show simulation results that indicate that this scheme can be used to enhance the secure key rate and to connect a multitude of users on the ground with minimal hardware requirements.

DOI
10.1117/12.3027035

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We present a satellite-compatible reconfigurable quantum network architecture. During the satellite-pass the network adopts a point-to-multipoint topology where all the users communicate with the satellite, whereas outside of a satellite pass, the signal is rerouted to form a fully-connected network between the ground users. Exploiting multiplexing techniques, we show simulation results that indicate that this scheme can be used to enhance the secure key rate and to connect a multitude of users on the ground with minimal hardware requirements.
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We experimentally demonstrate a reconfigurable quantum network architecture suitable for integrating satellite links in metropolitan quantum networks. The network architecture is designed such that once a satellite is in range, it is configured in a multipoint-to-point topology where all ground nodes establish entanglement with the satellite receiver using time multiplexing to optimize long-distance transmission. Otherwise, the satellite up-link can be rerouted to the ground nodes to form a pair-wise ground network. Leveraging both the time and frequency correlations of our photon-pair source, we demonstrate an increased coincidence-to-accidental ratio without additional resource overhead in a five-node network. To contextualize these experimental findings, we project their performance in a quantum key distribution scenario and outline a feasible route toward field deployment, using integrated photonics to enable network integration of up to 72 users.
Abstract We present and analyze an architecture for a European-scale quantum network using satellite links to connect Quantum Cities, which are metropolitan quantum networks with minimal hardware requirements for the end users. Using NetSquid, a quantum network simulation tool based on discrete events, we assess and benchmark the performance of such a network linking distant locations in Europe in terms of quantum key distribution rates, considering realistic parameters for currently available or near-term technology. Our results highlight the key parameters and the limits of current satellite quantum communication links and can be used to assist the design of future missions. We also discuss the possibility of using high-altitude balloons as an alternative to satellites.
Emergent quantum networks are the essential ingredient for securely connecting multiple users worldwide, extensively deployed in both fibre and free-space. An essential element is the multiplexing of entanglement to multiple users, overcoming the peer-to-peer restriction of quantum key distribution (QKD), so far successfully shown in fibre-based architectures. Here, we demonstrate a free-space quantum space division multiplexing architecture using just one entanglement source to realise a fully connected twelve-channel quantum network for seamless QKD connections between six users. The network achieves record coincidence rates exceeding 3×1043 \times 10^{4}3×104 s−1^{-1}−1 between any pair of nodes on the network, for sifted key rate of over 400 kbps. Our approach overcomes the active switching hurdle that has hindered the free-space deployment of quantum multiplexing, is fully passive, easily scalable to more nodes and compatible with fibre-based integration, thus opening a new path to scalable and resource-efficient quantum networks that utilise free-space links.
Abstract Quantum key distribution (QKD) via satellite links is the only currently viable solution to create quantumbacked secure communication at a global scale. To achieve intercontinental coverage with available technology one must adopt a “flying trusted node” paradigm, in which users fully trust the satellite platform. Here, inspired by the concept of distributed secret sharing and the imminent projected launch of several QKD-equipped satellites, we propose a parallel trusted node approach, in which key distribution is mediated by several satellites in parallel. This has the effect of distributing the trust, removing single points of failure and reducing the necessary assumptions. In addition, we discuss the versatility that an optical ground station should provide to execute such a protocol and, in general, to be fully integrated into a multi-party global quantum network.