Connecting quantum cities
simulation of a satellite-based quantum network
Raja Yehia (Universite Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC), TU Delft - QID/Wehner Group, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST))
Matteo Schiavon (Universite Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC))
Valentina Marulanda Acosta (CNRS, Universite Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC))
Tim Coopmans (TU Delft - QID/Elkouss Group, Universiteit Leiden)
Iordanis Kerenidis (CNRS)
D. Elkouss (TU Delft - Quantum Computer Science, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University)
Eleni Diamanti (Universite Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC))
More Info
expand_more
Other than for strictly personal use, it is not permitted to download, forward or distribute the text or part of it, without the consent of the author(s) and/or copyright holder(s), unless the work is under an open content license such as Creative Commons.
Abstract
We present and analyze an architecture for a European-scale quantum network using satellite links to connect Quantum Cities, which are metropolitan quantum networks with minimal hardware requirements for the end users. Using NetSquid, a quantum network simulation tool based on discrete events, we assess and benchmark the performance of such a network linking distant locations in Europe in terms of quantum key distribution rates, considering realistic parameters for currently available or near-term technology. Our results highlight the key parameters and the limits of current satellite quantum communication links and can be used to assist the design of future missions. We also discuss the possibility of using high-altitude balloons as an alternative to satellites.
help_outline