Discrete-Modulated Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution in Satellite-to-Ground Communication

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the potential of discrete-modulated continuous-variable quantum key distribution for satellite-to-ground communication by deriving key rates through simulations, highlighting its practicality and robustness in space environments.

Contribution

It provides the first detailed numerical analysis of key rates for discrete-modulated CV-QKD protocols in satellite-to-ground channels, supporting their feasibility for space-based quantum networks.

Findings

Discrete-modulated CV-QKD is viable in satellite-to-ground channels.

Simulation results show acceptable key rates under various conditions.

The protocol's robustness makes it suitable for space-based quantum communication.

Abstract

Satellite-to-ground quantum communication constitutes the cornerstone of the global quantum network, heralding the advent of the future of quantum information. Continuous-variable quantum key distribution is a strong candidate for space-ground quantum communication due to its simplicity, stability, and ease of implementation, especially for the robustness of space background light noise. Recently, the discrete-modulated continuous-variable protocol has garnered increased attention, owing to its lower implementation requirements, acceptable security key rate, and pronounced compatibility with extant infrastructures. Here, we derive key rates for discrete-modulated continuous-variable quantum key distribution protocols in free-space channel environments across various conditions through numerical simulation, revealing the viability of its application in satellite-to-ground communication.