aiqbench analysis
This paper presents a novel atmospheric channel model specifically designed to address turbulence and loss in ground-to-satellite quantum key distribution (QKD) links. By validating the model against data from existing missions like Micius and Hispasat, it also provides a preliminary viability assessment for integrating QKD into future megaconstellations such as Starlink. The work offers practical guidelines for optimizing link capacity and power balance in uplink and downlink scenarios, directly advancing the feasibility of space-based quantum networks.
Atmospheric channel model for QKD over satellite megaconstellations
arXiv:2610.27856v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Atmospheric turbulence and channel loss represent the primary limiting factors in ground-to-satellite quantum communication systems, yet their joint impact remains insufficiently characterized across diverse operational conditions. In this work, we develop a comprehensive and open atmospheric channel model for quantum optical links along ground-to-satellite paths, integrating altitude-dependent molecular and aerosol absorptions. The model is validated with available data from missions such as Micius and Hispasat, including a secondary viability assessment for a hypothetical Starlink-based quantum communication network, where we evaluate the predicted channel behavior in terms of single-photon transmittance and power balance, alongside the channel capacity of the link for uplink and downlink exclusively. Our comparative analysis demonstrates the ability of our channel model to predict real data under simple atmospheric behavior assumptions, which offer practical guidelines for the design and optimization of future quantum satellite missions.
Abstract:Atmospheric turbulence and channel loss represent the primary limiting factors in ground-to-satellite quantum communication systems, yet their joint impact remains insufficiently characterized across diverse operational conditions. In this work, we develop a comprehensive and open atmospheric channel model for quantum optical links along ground-to-satellite paths, integrating altitude-dependent molecular and aerosol absorptions. The model is validated with available data from missions such as Micius and Hispasat, including a secondary viability assessment for a hypothetical Starlink-based quantum communication network, where we evaluate the predicted channel behavior in terms of single-photon transmittance and power balance, alongside the channel capacity of the link for uplink and downlink exclusively. Our comparative analysis demonstrates the ability of our channel model to predict real data under simple atmospheric behavior assumptions, which offer practical guidelines for the design and optimization of future quantum satellite missions.
Networking and Internet Architecture (cs.NI); Quantum Physics (quant-ph)
arXiv:2610.27856 [cs.NI]
(or arXiv:2610.27856v1 [cs.NI] for this version)
https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2610.27856 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite (pending registration)
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Full text under the publisher's open licence · 236 words
