Free-space optical link for quantum key distribution using unmanned vehicle

Yao Zhang; Hua-Ying Liu; Xiaoyi Liu; Peng Xu; Xiang Dong; Hua Yu; Zhijun Yin; Shi-Ning Zhu; Zhenda Xie

doi:10.1117/12.2690188

17 August 2023 Free-space optical link for quantum key distribution using unmanned vehicle

Yao Zhang, Hua-Ying Liu, Xiaoyi Liu, Peng Xu, Xiang Dong, Hua Yu, Zhijun Yin, Shi-Ning Zhu, Zhenda Xie

Proceedings Volume 12757, 3rd International Conference on Laser, Optics, and Optoelectronic Technology (LOPET 2023); 127570L (2023) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2690188
Event: 3rd International Conference on Laser, Optics and Optoelectronic Technology (LOPET 2023), 2023, Kunming, China

Abstract

Here, we demonstrate a field-deployable free-space optical link for quantum key distribution (QKD) between a ground station and radio-controlled electric vehicle (RCEV). Compact and high-performance acquisition, pointing and tracking (APT) system is developed for small tracking error down to 3.8 μrad and average link loss of 16 dB. Such link is within the requirement of normal QKD system. With automatic acquisition and coarse tracking, the APT system can automatically establish the free-space optical link in 10 minutes. It is the first step towards mobile quantum secure communication network. Based on RCEV, the quantum optical link can be reconfigured at different link distances. This result greatly improves the flexibility of the link construction for the future QKD applications.

Citation Download Citation

Yao Zhang, Hua-Ying Liu, Xiaoyi Liu, Peng Xu, Xiang Dong, Hua Yu, Zhijun Yin, Shi-Ning Zhu, and Zhenda Xie "Free-space optical link for quantum key distribution using unmanned vehicle", Proc. SPIE 12757, 3rd International Conference on Laser, Optics, and Optoelectronic Technology (LOPET 2023), 127570L (17 August 2023); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2690188

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