Satellite-based Quantum Communications including Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) offer a promising approach for quantum communications.
- Along with using Quantum signals, it works at Tera Hertz (Hz) frequency, compared to well-established satellite-based communication that works in Mega or Giga Hz.
- However, choosing suitable site for sending quantum signals through the multi-layered and complex Earth’s atmosphere with minimum losses forms a crucial part.
Reasons for suitability of Hanle
- Suitable Atmospheric Conditions: Hanle is a dry, cold desert with winter temperatures reaching as low as -25 to -30 deg. C.
- Has a lower level of atmospheric water vapour and oxygen concentrations.
- Suitable Natural Setting: For establishing ground stations for long distance quantum communication.
- Lesser signal loss (44 dB): When compared to the other two best sites studied -Mt Abu (47dB), and Nainital (48dB).
About Quantum Communication and QKD
- Based on the laws of quantum physics that uses Qubits or Quantum bits (particles which are mainly photons of lights) for transmitting data.
- Quantum particles exhibit the property of Quantum entanglement and Superposition, enabling them to exist in multiple states (0s and 1s) simultaneously.
- This offers data security as information cannot be accessed or cloned without tampering the quantum state.
- QKD, refers to a secure communication method for exchanging encryption keys known only to shared parties.
