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Satellite-to-Ground Quantum Key Distribution: Simulated and Hardware-Validated Effects of Atmospheric Loss on Secure Fleet and Aircraft-to-Base Communications

Zuhair Ahmed

Published Jan 1, 2026• 0 citations
Publisher
DOI
10.2139/ssrn.7365822

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Satellite-based link analysis is valuable for efficient and secure quantum communication, despite seasonal limits and restrictions on transmission times. A semi-empirical quantum key distribution model for satellite-based systems was proposed that simplifies simulations of communication links. Unlike other theoretical models, our approach was based on the experimentally-determined atmospheric extinction coefficient typical for mid-latitude ground stations. The parameter was measured for both clear and foggy conditions, and it was validated using published experimental data from the Micius satellite. Using this model, we simulated secure QKD between the Micius satellite and ground stations with 300 mm and 600 mm aperture telescopes.