A review on practical challenges of aerial quantum communication

Abstract

The increasing demand for the realization of global-scale quantum communication services necessitates critical investigation for a practical quantum secure communication network that relies on full-time all-location coverage. In this direction, the non-terrestrial quantum key distribution is expected to play an important role in providing agility, maneuverability, relay link, on-demand network, and last-mile coverage. In this work, we have summarized the research and development that has happened until now in the domain of quantum communication using non-terrestrial platforms with a specific focus on the associated challenges and the relevant models. Further, to extend the analysis beyond the existing know-how, a hybrid model involving the features of Vasylyev et al.’s model and Liorni et al.’s model is introduced here. The hybrid model entails us adapting a spherical beam to an elliptic beam approximation and effectively capturing the characteristics of transmittance in densely humid weather conditions and at low altitudes.

Keywords

• Quantum key distribution
• Modeling aerial quantum communication
• Drone-based QKD
• Acquisition-pointing and tracking (APT)
• Atmospheric turbulence
• Quantum software defined networking