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Quantum 2.0 Conference and Exhibition

Receiving Polarization-Encoded Quantum Key Distribution Signals from the QUBE-II CubeSat

Michael Steinberger, Michael Auer, Adomas Baliuka, Karabee Batta, Moritz Birkhold, Harald Weinfurter, Lukas Knips

Published Jan 1, 2025• 0 citations
Publisher

Abstract

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) in space will be integral for future quantum networks. Based upon our pathfinder mission QUBE, the QUBE-II space mission is aiming to demonstrate economic global-scale QKD with an eight-unit CubeSat.
DOI
10.1364/quantum.2025.qtu2a.3

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Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) enables the secure distribution of secret keys for cryptographic purposes between two trusted parties over a quantum channel. For reaching global-scale quantum key distribution, satellite-based approaches are most promising as already demonstrated by the Chinese MICIUS mission. Here, we summarize our efforts in building a very compact QKD sender unit featuring polarization-encoded BB84 with weak coherent pulses. The unit is suitable for deployment in cube satellites such as our missions QUBE and QUBE-II which aim to demonstrate that affordable and scalable key distribution is possible in the near future.
Progress in realising quantum computers threatens to weaken existing public key encryption infrastructure. A global quantum key distribution (QKD) network can play a role in computational attack-resistant encryption. Such a network could use a constellation of high altitude platforms such as airships and satellites as trusted nodes to facilitate QKD between any two points on the globe on demand. This requires both space-to-ground and inter-platform links. However, the prohibitive cost of traditional satellite based development limits the experimental work demonstrating relevant technologies. To accelerate progress towards a global network, we use an emerging class of shoe-box sized spacecraft known as CubeSats. We have designed a polarization entangled photon pair source that can operate on board CubeSats. The robustness and miniature form factor of our entanglement source makes it especially suitable for performing pathfinder missions that studies QKD between two high altitude platforms. The technological outcomes of such mission would be the essential building blocks for a global QKD network.