Concepts for utilization of quantum communications and quantum key distribution

摘要

As secure space communications becomes more desirable, quantum-based communications systems have the potential to become a high performing option. NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), with its partner institutions, is pursuing a variety of technology endeavours to enable the practical application of quantum communications in future NASA missions. This paper will discuss some of those technology areas. We will discuss methods being developed by GSFC and the University of Kansas for securing and auto-synchronizing communication over free-space optics using quantum key distribution and chaotic systems. In such a scenario, the security of the system would stem from the sensitivity to initial conditions. Furthermore, specific windows of single chaotic runs can be harvested to be used with encoder/decoder in a cyclic manner. Not only would the security of such a system be unique, the initial conditions can be transmitted via a quantum key distribution to add another layer of security to the system. We will discuss work being performed by GSFC and Michigan State University in analysis and development of solid-state quantum communications materials and devices. These will be necessary for devices capable of processing and routing quantum information on-board a spacecraft or within a quantum-capable ground station. In recent years, advancements in the understanding of quantum properties has led to a wide range of promising applications. One such application is orbital angular momentum (OAM) for secure optical communications being researched by partners at University of Wyoming and University of Illinois-Chicago. The utilization of OAM properties can be done via highly precise function values that can then be modulated using different constellations. Opportunities for quantum communications demonstrations exists in a variety of possible venues from balloons to CubeSats. We will discuss the potential for a low cost, high altitude balloon-to-balloon quantum communications