# CubeSat quantum communications mission

## TL;DR

The paper proposes a CubeSat-based quantum communication mission that aims to enable secure quantum key distribution and entanglement tests from space, leveraging miniaturized quantum and satellite technologies within a small, cost-effective platform.

## Contribution

It introduces the CubeSat Quantum Communications Mission (CQuCoM), a novel, miniaturized space platform integrating advanced quantum and satellite systems for space-based quantum communication.

## Key findings

- Design concept for a 10 kg CubeSat quantum communication payload.
- Potential to establish a space-based quantum key distribution network.
- Pathfinder for future nanosatellite quantum payloads.

## Abstract

Quantum communication is a prime space technology application and offers near-term possibilities for long-distance quantum key distribution (QKD) and experimental tests of quantum entanglement. However, there exists considerable developmental risks and subsequent costs and time required to raise the technological readiness level of terrestrial quantum technologies and to adapt them for space operations. The small-space revolution is a promising route by which synergistic advances in miniaturization of both satellite systems and quantum technologies can be combined to leap-frog conventional space systems development. Here, we outline a recent proposal to perform orbit-to-ground transmission of entanglement and QKD using a CubeSat platform deployed from the International Space Station (ISS). This ambitious mission exploits advances in nanosatellite attitude determination and control systems (ADCS), miniaturised target acquisition and tracking sensors, compact and robust sources of single and entangled photons, and high-speed classical communications systems, all to be incorporated within a 10 kg 6 litre mass-volume envelope. The CubeSat Quantum Communications Mission (CQuCoM) would be a pathfinder for advanced nanosatellite payloads and operations, and would establish the basis for a constellation of low-Earth orbit trusted-nodes for QKD service provision.