[Triumf-seminars] TRIUMF Colloquium today at 14:00

[TRIUMF Seminars]

Date/Time: Wed 2012-02-22 at 14:00

Location:  Auditorium          

Speaker:   Prof. Thomas Jennewein (University of Waterloo, Institute for Quantum Computing and Department of Physics and Astronomy)

Title:     Quantum Encryption and Quantum Science with Satellites

Abstract: Space offers a very unique environment for quantum physics experiments at regimes for distance and velocity not possible on ground. In the recent years there have been a range of theoretical and experimental studies towards the feasibility of performing quantum physics and quantum information science experiments in space.

The most advanced quantum application is quantum cryptography, or more correctly known as quantum key distribution (QKD) [Scarani et al., Rev.Mod.Phys, 2009]. Thereby, the transmission of individual photons between two distant users, called Alice and Bob, allows them to create a highly secure key. Its security stems from the simple fact that the information stored in individual photons, such as its polarization, cannot be fully determined due to Heisenberg's uncertainty relation. Currently, such quantum cryptography systems can reach distances on the order of 200 kilometers [Waks et al, Phys.Rev.A,2002], limited by the performance of current optical fibres and single-photon-detectors. One clear solution for achieving global distances is to bring these quantum systems into space onto satellites. In addition, quantum satellites in Earth's orbit, and possibly even beyond that, are able to test the validity of quantum physics and entanglement on huge length scales and even give insights into the interplay of quantum physics and relativity.

I will present the objectives and goals of the proposed QEYSSAT mission, which can accomplish the experimental demonstrations of these concepts with existing technology on a small-scale satellite.  The planned quantum experiments and their requirements will be shown.



Stimulants available 15 minutes before the talk.

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