Progress in satellite quantum key distribution

Understand

Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a family of protocols for growing a private encryption key between two parties.

• Despite much progress, all ground-based QKD approaches have a distance limit due to atmospheric losses or in-fibre attenuation.
• These limitations make purely ground-based systems impractical for a global distribution network.
• However, the range of communication may be extended by employing satellites equipped with high-quality optical links.