The applicability of quantum key distribut ion technology in a free atmosphere when constructing segments of modern quantum communication networks

Erokhin K.Y., Kazantsev S.Y., Kazieva T.V., Mironov Y.B., Pchelkina N.V.

For Russian citation (Opticheskii Zhurnal):

Ерохин К.Ю., Казанцев С.Ю., Казиева Т.В., Миронов Ю.Б., Пчелкина Н.В. Применимость технологии квантового распределения ключей в свободной атмосфере при построении сегментов современных квантовых коммуникационных сетей // Оптический журнал. 2024. Т. 91. № 11. С. 63–70. http://doi.org/10.17586/1023-5086-2024-91-11-63-70

Erokhin K.Yu., Kazantsev S.Yu., Kazieva T.V., Mironov Yu.B., Pchelkina N.V. The applicability of quantum key distribution technology in a free atmosphere when constructing segments of modern quantum communication networks [in Russian] // Opticheskii Zhurnal. 2024. V. 91. № 11. P. 63–70. http://doi.org/10.17586/1023-5086-2024-91-11-63-70

For citation (Journal of Optical Technology):

Abstract:

Subject of study. Quantum key distribution technology in the free atmosphere. Aim of study. Creation of a hardware and software complex for studying the quantum key distribution technology in wireless communication systems based on serial modules, including optical units of atmospheric optical communication and a training installation for studying quantum key distribution in fiberoptic communication lines. Method. Experimental studies of the quantum communication channel characteristics in the free atmosphere formed by quantum key distribution units of the EMQOS 1.0 scientific and educational complex, coupled with optical units of atmospheric optical communication, and modernization of these systems in order to minimize losses in the quantum channel. Main results. A hardware and software complex has been created, which demonstrated the transmission of a quantum key in a free atmosphere at a distance of 180 m, while the quantum error level does not exceed 6%. It is shown that this complex allows us to study the influence of weather conditions on optical losses in a quantum communication channel and the rate of generation of a quantum key. Practical significance. The created hardware and software complex allows monitoring the parameters of both classical and quantum communication channels implemented in a free atmosphere under different weather conditions, and the modular structure of the complex makes it possible to connect other quantum equipment to conduct comparative tests of the quantum communication systems efficiency under real atmospheric route conditions.

Keywords:

quantum communications, atmospheric optical communication lines, free space optical communication, quantum key distribution

Acknowledgements:

this work was supported by the agreement between JSC Russian Railways and PJSC Rostelecom dated October 31, 2022 № DK TsKK-226719

OCIS codes: 060.2605, 270.5565

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