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arXiv · 1711.03409

Quantum Communication Uplink to a 3U CubeSat: Feasibility & Design

Sebastian Philipp Neumann·Siddarth Koduru Joshi·Matthias Fink·Thomas Scheidl·Roland Blach·Carsten Scharlemann·Sameh Abouagaga·Daanish Bambery·Erik Kerstel·Mathieu Barthelemy·Rupert Ursin
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Abstract

Satellites are the efficient way to achieve global scale quantum communication (Q.Com) because unavoidable losses restrict fiber based Q.Com to a few hundred kilometers. We demonstrate the feasibility of establishing a Q.Com uplink with a tiny 3U CubeSat (measuring just 10X10X32 cm^3 ) using commercial off-the-shelf components, the majority of which have space heritage. We demonstrate how to leverage the latest advancements in nano-satellite body-pointing to show that our 4kg CubeSat can provide performance comparable to much larger 600kg satellite missions. A comprehensive link budget and simulation was performed to calculate the secure key rates. We discuss design choices and trade-offs to maximize the key rate while minimizing the cost and development needed. Our detailed design and feasibility study can be readily used as a template for global scale Q.Com.

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Sebastian Philipp Neumann, Siddarth Koduru Joshi, Matthias Fink, Thomas Scheidl, Roland Blach, Carsten Scharlemann, Sameh Abouagaga, Daanish Bambery, Erik Kerstel, Mathieu Barthelemy, Rupert Ursin. 2017-11-09. Quantum Communication Uplink to a 3U CubeSat: Feasibility & Design. https://doi.org/10.1140/epjqt%2Fs40507-018-0068-1

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