Free-space secure key exchange from 1 m to 1000 km

M. S. Godfrey; A. M. Lynch; J. L. Duligall; W. J. Munro; K. J. Harrison; J. G. Rarity

doi:10.1117/12.690521

16 October 2006 Free-space secure key exchange from 1 m to 1000 km

M. S. Godfrey, A. M. Lynch, J. L. Duligall, W. J. Munro, K. J. Harrison, J. G. Rarity

Proceedings Volume 6399, Advanced Free-Space Optical Communication Techniques/Applications II and Photonic Components/Architectures for Microwave Systems and Displays; 63990E (2006) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.690521
Event: Optics/Photonics in Security and Defence, 2006, Stockholm, Sweden

Abstract

Coding data bits in the phase or polarisation state of light allows us to exploit the wave particle duality for novel communication protocols. Using this principle the first practical quantum communication systems have been built. These are the fibre and free-space quantum cryptography apparatus used for secure exchange of keys. To date free space key exchange has aimed at long range with 144km range achieved and future experiments aiming to extend this range to 1000km exchanging keys with low earth orbit satellites. At the other end of the spectrum we are developing low cost hand held systems. These systems could be an effective way for the user to generate a store of secrets shared with a central repository. These secrets can then be used up to protect a wide variety of sensitive classical communications. Examples include on-line PIN protection for consumer transactions and password protection in secure access schemes.

Citation Download Citation

M. S. Godfrey, A. M. Lynch, J. L. Duligall, W. J. Munro, K. J. Harrison, and J. G. Rarity "Free-space secure key exchange from 1 m to 1000 km", Proc. SPIE 6399, Advanced Free-Space Optical Communication Techniques/Applications II and Photonic Components/Architectures for Microwave Systems and Displays, 63990E (16 October 2006); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.690521

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