2023/07/21 by Raja Yehia, Matteo Schiavon, Yehia, Raja +11
Engineering · #FOS: Physical sciences #Molecular Communication and Nanonetworks #Optical Wireless Communication Technologies #Quantum Physics (quant-ph) #Satellite Communication Systems
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.2307.11606
openalex publication_date 2023/07/21 · openalex created_date 2023/07/25 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
We present and analyse 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.