학술논문
QUICK$^3$ -- Design of a satellite-based quantum light source for quantum communication and extended physical theory tests in space
Document Type
Working Paper
Author
Ahmadi, Najme; Schwertfeger, Sven; Werner, Philipp; Wiese, Lukas; Lester, Joseph; Da Ros, Elisa; Krause, Josefine; Ritter, Sebastian; Abasifard, Mostafa; Cholsuk, Chanaprom; Krämer, Ria G.; Atzeni, Simone; Gündoğan, Mustafa; Sachidananda, Subash; Pardo, Daniel; Nolte, Stefan; Lohrmann, Alexander; Ling, Alexander; Bartholomäus, Julian; Corrielli, Giacomo; Krutzik, Markus; Vogl, Tobias
Source
Advanced Quantum Technologies 7, 2300343 (2024)
Subject
Language
Abstract
Modern quantum technologies have matured such that they can now be used in space applications, e.g., long-distance quantum communication. Here, we present the design of a compact true single photon source that can enhance the secure data rates in satellite-based quantum key distribution scenarios compared to conventional laser-based light sources. Our quantum light source is a fluorescent color center in hexagonal boron nitride. The emitter is off-resonantly excited by a diode laser and directly coupled to an integrated photonic processor that routes the photons to different experiments performed directly on-chip: (i) the characterization of the single photon source and (ii) testing a fundamental postulate of quantum mechanics, namely the relation of the probability density and the wave function (known as Born's rule). The described payload is currently being integrated into a 3U CubeSat and scheduled for launch in 2024 into low Earth orbit. We can therefore evaluate the feasibility of true single photon sources and reconfigurable photonic circuits in space. This provides a promising route toward a high-speed quantum network.