Satellite Quantum Communication via the Alphasat Laser Communication Terminal
This work addresses the challenge of long-distance secure communication for global networks, representing an incremental adaptation of existing technology.
The paper tackles the problem of interconnecting metropolitan quantum networks over long distances by adapting Laser Communication Terminals (LCTs) for quantum key distribution (QKD) using continuous variables, with first satellite measurement campaigns currently validating the approach.
By harnessing quantum effects, we nowadays can use encryption that is in principle proven to withstand any conceivable attack. These fascinating quantum features have been implemented in metropolitan quantum networks around the world. In order to interconnect such networks over long distances, optical satellite communication is the method of choice. Standard telecommunication components allow one to efficiently implement quantum communication by measuring field quadratures (continuous variables). This opens the possibility to adapt our Laser Communication Terminals (LCTs) to quantum key distribution (QKD). First satellite measurement campaigns are currently validating our approach.