Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: We experimentally demonstrate an entanglement-based Quantum-Secure Time Transfer (QSTT) system in an emulated low Earth orbit satellite-to-ground channel using a type-0 Sagnac-based entangled-photon source. Our new QSTT system delivers a finite Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) key rate of approximately $3~$bits$~\text{s}^{-1}$ with a $10^{-10}$ security parameter, providing a $30$-fold increase in the QKD key rate compared to the state-of-the-art entanglement-based QKD system delivered by the Micius satellite. Beyond this high key rate outcome, novel to our QSTT system is a GPS-free clock synchronization, optimized use of QKD, embedded post-quantum security, and obfuscation of the system configuration via use of a pre-shared key. Collectively, these enhancements deliver the most efficient and secure deployment of QSTT to date, and point the way forward to high-accuracy ultra-secure time transfer in space.
Source: arXiv (Cornell University)
Institution: UNSW Sydney
Subfield: Artificial Intelligence
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7204262065
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: