Drone-based entanglement distribution towards mobile quantum networks

Abstract

Satellites have shown free-space quantum-communication ability; however, they are orbit-limited from full-time all-location coverage. Meanwhile, practical quantum networks require satellite constellations, which are complicated and expensive, whereas the airborne mobile quantum communication may be a practical alternative to offering full-time all-location multi-weather coverage in a cost-effective way. Here, we demonstrate the first mobile entanglement distribution based on drones, realizing multi-weather operation including daytime and rainy nights, with a Clauser-Horne-Shimony-Holt S-parameter measured to be 2.41 ± 0.14 and 2.49 ± 0.06, respectively. Such a system shows unparalleled mobility, flexibility and reconfigurability compared to the existing satellite and fiber-based quantum communication, and reveals its potential to establish a multinode quantum network, with a scalable design using symmetrical lens diameter and single-mode-fiber coupling. All key technologies have been developed to pack quantum nodes into lightweight mobile platforms for local-area coverage, and arouse further technical improvements to establish wide-area quantum networks with high-altitude mobile communication.

Survey of Promising Technologies for Quantum Drones and Networks

“…The limitations of the quantum communication methods can be extended by the applicability of the varied modern drones [98]. The other name of the drone is a UAV [99]- [101], and it has shown an immersive development [102] after the recognition of automatic flight control systems, and AI has taken place all over the world [103].…”

“…This has successfully lead to the development of the mobile quantum network that could interconnect with satellites and fiber networks for further extension, which will finally form a practical, multifunctional global quantum network. In [98], the practical theory behind mobile quantum communication via entanglement distribution is explained, which is more robust against all weather conditions and can help in realizing full coverage over multiple space and time scales.…”

“…Quantum signals are employed to exchange qubits across a short distance in these prototypes and smallscale implementations. With this capability, hovering drones for quantum data exchange can be easily observed for various purposes [159].…”

“…Thus, the feasibility of the quantum field with domain has made the exploration of those things which are either difficult to access or lies in remote areas. In [8], drone-based entanglement distribution has been experimented with over a 200 meters distance. The authors have discussed the possibilities of covering local-area coverage using lowaltitude drones and wide-area ranges using high-altitude drones.…”

Quantum Drones Take Flight

“…reported a quantum link using a single octocopter-style drone [2]. The drone generated pairs of infrared photons whose polarization orientations were entangled.…”