Chinese-South African Team Achieves World’s Longest Quantum Communication Link
A joint Chinese-South African team has established the longest quantum communication link using a microsatellite, transmitting images over 12,900 kilometers. Future plans include launching more microsatellites to build a global quantum network, enhancing communication and technological capabilities.
A collaborative effort between Chinese and South African researchers has led to the establishment of the world’s longest quantum communication link, marked as a significant advancement in the field. Utilizing a cost-effective microsatellite in conjunction with portable ground stations, this achievement was detailed in a recent article published in the scientific journal Nature.
Employing China’s Jinan-1 quantum microsatellite, the team successfully connected Stellenbosch University in South Africa to a base in Beijing, managed by researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC). This groundbreaking initiative enabled the transmission of two images over an impressive distance of 12,900 kilometers – one depicting China’s Great Wall and the other showcasing Stellenbosch University campus.
The research team highlighted their innovation in developing a quantum microsatellite capable of executing quantum key distribution from space to ground through portable ground stations. This advancement is a pivotal moment for the evolution of quantum communication technology.
Looking ahead, the research team has outlined ambitious plans to establish a global-scale quantum network. They aim to launch multiple microsatellites and create an extensive network of optical ground stations, marking a crucial step towards deploying a practical quantum constellation. This envisioned network is anticipated to revolutionize communication, computing, and sensing capabilities worldwide.
The collaborative efforts of Chinese and South African researchers have achieved a groundbreaking feat in quantum communication by establishing the world’s longest quantum communication link. Through the use of the Jinan-1 microsatellite and innovative technology, the team demonstrated long-distance image transmission, pointing towards significant future advancements. Their plans to create a global quantum network promise to enhance communication systems and technological capabilities dramatically.
Original Source: www.newsbytesapp.com
