Quantum Key Distribution over Combined Atmospheric Fading Channels

TL;DR

This paper evaluates the feasibility of continuous variable quantum key distribution via satellite links affected by atmospheric turbulence, demonstrating that post-selection can enable practical key rates in realistic low-earth-orbit scenarios.

Contribution

It provides the first quantitative analysis of quantum key rates for entanglement-based CV-QKD over satellite channels with atmospheric fading, emphasizing ground-based engineering solutions.

Findings

Post-selection improves key generation rates.

Feasibility demonstrated for low-earth-orbit satellite links.

Analysis of atmospheric turbulence effects on quantum communication.

Abstract

In this work we analyze a quantum communication scheme for entanglement-based continuous variable quantum key distribution between two ground stations. Communication occurs via a satellite over two independent atmospheric fading channels dominated by turbulence-induced beam wander. In this scheme the engineering complexity remains largely on the ground transceivers, with the satellite acting simply as a reflector. We show how the use of a highly selective post-selection strategy may lead to a useful quantum key generation rate for this system. This work represents the first quantitative assessment of continuous variable quantum key rates in the pragmatic scenario of reflection off low-earth-orbit satellites.