Quantum Communication Uplink to a 3U CubeSat: Feasibility & Design

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the feasibility of a compact 3U CubeSat for quantum communication uplinks, showing it can achieve performance comparable to larger satellites using off-the-shelf components and advanced pointing technology.

Contribution

It provides a detailed design and feasibility analysis for a small CubeSat quantum communication uplink, highlighting cost-effective solutions and performance optimization.

Findings

Achieved comparable performance to larger satellites with a 3U CubeSat

Developed a comprehensive link budget and simulation for secure key rates

Outlined design trade-offs to optimize cost and performance

Abstract

Satellites are the efficient way to achieve global scale quantum communication (Q.Com) because unavoidable losses restrict fiber based Q.Com to a few hundred kilometers. We demonstrate the feasibility of establishing a Q.Com uplink with a tiny 3U CubeSat (measuring just 10X10X32 cm^3 ) using commercial off-the-shelf components, the majority of which have space heritage. We demonstrate how to leverage the latest advancements in nano-satellite body-pointing to show that our 4kg CubeSat can provide performance comparable to much larger 600kg satellite missions. A comprehensive link budget and simulation was performed to calculate the secure key rates. We discuss design choices and trade-offs to maximize the key rate while minimizing the cost and development needed. Our detailed design and feasibility study can be readily used as a template for global scale Q.Com.