Quantum key distribution gets ready for satellite uplinks
University of Waterloo researchers performed a lab demonstration proving the feasibility of Quantum Key Distribution over a satellite uplink.
In an emulated environment for performing QKD, a team of researchers analyzed the impact of the optical loss that occurs between the photon source and the satellite receiver. They successfully generated a secure key using algorithms tailored for a satellite receiver, an important step towards extending the distance of ultra-secure communications.
A team led by Professor Thomas Jennewein at the University of Waterloo’s Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) has successfully completed the development of the crucial Acquisition, Pointing and Tracking (APT) fine pointing system for a future Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) satellite payload.