Optimization is Space Quantum Communications

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The University of York is developing a quantum communication payload and a receiver, based on continuous variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD ), for the quantum communications hub in-orbit demonstrator. The current payload and receiver are experimental concepts developed for testing and demonstrating the feasibility of CVQKD over space-to-earth optical link. Various optimization indeed improves the transmission distances as well as the key distribution rates over the free-space channel. This project aims to optimise the performance of the CVQKD system and its components for space quantum communication. The objectives of the research are categorized as follows: Year 1) literature review on CVQKD system and space quantum communication technology. Understand quantum sensitive detection, realizing experimental setups for signal generation and detection. This includes understanding the payload and receiver optics, characterise various sources of noise that affect the signal generation and detection, and identifying possible areas of optimization; Year 2) theoretically verify the optimization procedures and estimate the performance improvements on payload and receiver and develop a proof of principle demonstrator; year 3) test the optimized space CVQKD system in lab and in field. Multiple manuscripts are aiming to be published in peer-reviewed journals over the project duration, based on theoretical analysis and experimental verification. The project is aligned with UK National Quantum Technology initiatives and within the scope of EPSRC research areas of quantum technology. This project is in collaboration with RAL Space, which is a quantum communications hub partner for the quantum satellite in-orbit demonstrator. The primary research location of the project is at RAL Space with active academic supervision from York.