Towards free-space quantum key distribution with a 2D single-photon sensor

Alfonso Tello Castillo; Ross Donaldson

doi:10.1117/12.2601232

6 October 2021 Towards free-space quantum key distribution with a 2D single-photon sensor

Proceedings Volume 11881, Quantum Technology: Driving Commercialisation of an Enabling Science II; 1188109 (2021) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2601232
Event: SPIE Photonex, 2021, Glasgow, United Kingdom

Abstract

Applications of quantum key distribution are becoming more diverse due to the increase in interest in the secure key sharing protocol. Transmission through free-space channels has risen in popularity in recent years, primarily due to global coverage using satellite platforms. However, free-space channels come with challenges that need to be addressed, such as; diffraction loss, background noise, pointing-and-tracking, and atmospheric aberration. Novel design and use of state-of-the-art detector technologies in quantum receivers can help alleviate these difficulties. This paper presents and discusses the implementation of 2D single-photon sensor technology for free-space quantum key distribution. We present an experimental method that utilizes independent single-photon avalanche diode pixel read-out to reduce background noise contributions while simultaneously increasing optical field-of-view. Finally, we show and discuss single-photon level beaconing capabilities for pointing and tracking.

Conference Presentation

Citation Download Citation

Alfonso Tello Castillo and Ross Donaldson "Towards free-space quantum key distribution with a 2D single-photon sensor", Proc. SPIE 11881, Quantum Technology: Driving Commercialisation of an Enabling Science II, 1188109 (6 October 2021); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2601232

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