A Chinese-South African team has established the longest quantum communication link using the Jinan-1 quantum microsatellite. They transmitted two images across 12,900 km, marking a significant advancement in quantum technology. Future plans include a widespread network of microsatellites and ground stations aiming for revolutionary capabilities in communication and computing.
A collaborative effort between researchers from China and South Africa has led to the creation of the longest quantum communication link globally. Utilizing an economical microsatellite alongside portable ground stations, this significant achievement was published in a recent edition of Nature, a well-respected scientific journal.
The joint team leveraged China’s Jinan-1 quantum microsatellite, forming a connection between Stellenbosch University in South Africa and a Beijing base operated by the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC). This innovative use of technology marks a significant advancement in the field of quantum communication.
The quantum microsatellite played a crucial role in transmitting two images over an extraordinary distance of 12,900 kilometers. The images included one of China’s Great Wall and the other showcasing Stellenbosch University’s campus. The research team indicated that they successfully developed a quantum microsatellite capable of facilitating space-to-ground quantum key distribution through portable stations, representing a noteworthy advancement in quantum communication technologies.
The researchers have ambitious plans for enhancing the scale of their innovations by launching multiple microsatellites and establishing a comprehensive network of optical ground stations. They envision this initiative evolving into a practical quantum constellation that could facilitate a global-scale quantum communication network with remarkable advancements in communication, computing, and sensing capabilities.
This achievement of establishing the longest quantum communication link showcases the rapid advancements in technology through international collaboration. With the successful transmission of images and future plans for a comprehensive quantum network, this project promises groundbreaking developments in the field. The ambitions of the research team reflect a transformative potential for global communication and technology at large.
Original Source: www.newsbytesapp.com
