The quantum based satellite communication offers a secure way for key distribution which is essential for symmetric keys based transmission. For modeling this type of communication, we created a mathematical model which is based on the behavior of single-photon sources and detectors and on the losses originated from beam spreading and pointing error. Based on this model, we developed a simulator software to study the quantum communication over space-space links, e.g., between two satellites. We analyzed the performance of three quantum key distribution protocols-BB84, B92, S09-on different space-space links. Two of the main parameters during the analysis were the size of the necessary aperture for a successful space-space communication and the length of the communication channel. Our results show that the three mentioned QKD protocols are feasible when using satellite-satellite links.
展开▼
