Generation and analysis of correlated pairs of photons on board a nanosatellite

TL;DR

This paper reports the successful in-orbit operation of a photon pair source on a nanosatellite, demonstrating space-based quantum communication capabilities with high polarization correlation contrast, paving the way for global quantum networks.

Contribution

It is the first demonstration of a photon pair source operating in space on a nanosatellite, showing potential for cost-effective quantum communication satellites.

Findings

Photon pair generation achieved in orbit with 97% polarization correlation contrast

Nanosatellite components demonstrated in-orbit lifetime and performance

Pathfinding for future space-based quantum experiments established

Abstract

Satellites carrying sources of entangled photons could establish a global quantum network, enabling private encryption keys between any two points on Earth. Despite numerous proposals, demonstration of space-based quantum systems has been limited due to the cost of traditional satellites. We are using very small spacecraft to accelerate progress. We report the in-orbit operation of a photon pair source aboard a 1.65 kg nanosatellite and demonstrate pair generation and polarization correlation under space conditions. The in-orbit photon correlations exhibit a contrast of 97+/-2%, matching ground-based tests. This pathfinding mission overcomes the challenge of demonstrating in-orbit performance for the components of future entangled photon experiments. Ongoing operation establishes the in-orbit lifetime of these critical components. More generally, this demonstrates the ability for nanosatellites to enable faster progress in space-based research.