Quantum Communication Satellites
- [Chinese scientists have established the world’s first integrated quantum communication network, combining over 700 optical fibers on the ground with two ground-to-satellite links to achieve quantum key distribution over a total distance of 4,600 kilometers for users across the country - University of Science and Technology of China]
- Quantum Communications Satellites
Quantum satellites communicate with ground stations using photons that are inextricably linked, or "entangled," in quantum physics.
Quantum entanglement links allow information to be transmitted at the speed of light, but also mean that any attempt to intercept the signal would instantly sever the link, making hacking impossible.
Quantum communication satellites will be at the center of not only a future quantum internet, but also the hacker-proof network used to transmit classified data and communications, not to mention the command and control architecture that will be an integral part of space dominance.
- Chinese Quantum Communication Satellite
In 2016, Chinese scientists have established the world's first comprehensive quantum communication network, combining more than 700 optical fibers on the ground with two ground-to-satellite links, and realized quantum key distribution for users across the country with a total distance of 4,600 kilometers.
The satellite uses quantum key distribution (QKD) technology. QKD is a proven technique. China sent an "unbreakable" code from a satellite to Earth, marking the first realization of space-to-earth quantum key distribution (QED) technology.
China launched the world's first quantum satellite to help create "hack-proof" communications. Any attempt to eavesdrop on a quantum channel would cause detectable disturbances to the system. Once intercepted or measured, the key's quantum state changes and the intercepted message self-destructs.
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