Guidance system in satellite quantum cryptography

Subject of study. The developed satellite guidance and tracking system as part of a ground-based receiving station for point-to-point satellite quantum cryptography. Aim of study. Development and testing of a guidance and tracking system for low-orbit satellites during quantum key distribution, using a developed algorithm for detecting the center of an object’s image on the camera matrix. Method. Analyzing the intensity of the satellite image on a camera to find its coordinates and conducting satellite tracking tests in reflected sunlight and during a real experiment on point-to-point satellite quantum cryptography. Main results. The developed two-stage stabilization system has been successfully applied to track satellites by sunlight reflected from their surface, as well as by a reference laser beacon sent by the satellite during point-to-point satellite quantum key distribution. Practical significance. The system of acquisition, pointing and tracking the satellite in the field of view of the quantum signal registration module allows you to organize a stable communication line for point-to-point satellite quantum cryptography.