A team of Chinese and South African researchers has tested a quantum microsatellite capable of enabling global quantum communication. They successfully transmitted encrypted images over a distance of 12,900 kilometers, laying the groundwork for a future network of microsatellites. The project aims to revolutionize communication, computing, and sensing through a global-scale quantum network.
A recent collaboration between Chinese and South African researchers has led to the testing of a quantum microsatellite that could pave the way for a global quantum communication network. The team employed a compact device and portable ground stations to achieve significant advancements in communication capabilities, managing to transmit encrypted images across a distance of 12,900 kilometers (8,000 miles).
During the experiment, the researchers utilized a shared encryption key to send two distinct images: one of China’s Great Wall and the other depicting the Stellenbosch campus in South Africa. “[We] report the development of a quantum microsatellite capable of performing space-to-ground quantum key distribution using portable ground stations,” stated the team in their research paper.
They expressed optimism about the future of quantum communication, suggesting that this success lays a strong groundwork for the deployment of multiple microsatellites and the establishment of an extensive network of optical ground stations. “A global-scale quantum network with revolutionary communication, computing and sensing capabilities is anticipated in the near future,” they concluded, emphasizing the promise of practical applications in quantum technology.
The success of the quantum microsatellite signifies a pivotal moment in the pursuit of establishing a global quantum communication network. With the potential for revolutionary advancements in security and data transmission, the collaboration between Chinese and South African researchers is a step towards realizing an extensive optical ground station network. This development marks a crucial stride towards the future of quantum technology.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
