evolution Inc.

Published purpose

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) aims at creating shared cryptographic keys by exploiting the fundamental laws of quantum physics. Terrestrial QKD networks suffer from a limitation related to the maximal possible physical distance between directly connected nodes. Satellite based QKD network is an answer to this call. Secure-key sharing can be achieved between ground stations located across the nation in a timely, reliable and economical way with QKD-capable satellites. However, compared to its optical fibre-based counterpart, a satellite QKD network has a time-varying network topology and fluctuating QKD key generating capacities between the satellites and ground stations. This brings in unique new challenges related to planning and operations. Factors such as weather conditions, seasonal effects, and many others need to be taken into consideration in designing and running the system in the most effective and economical way. The project aims at developing the tools needed to solve such challenges, mainly through QKD network control technologies, optimization algorithms, their software implementation, and integration with QKD hardware.