A quantum random number generator on a nanosatellite in low Earth orbit

• DOI: 10.1038/s42005-022-01096-7
• Publication Date: 2022-12-03T15:15:24Z
• Authors: Ayesha Reezwana; Tanvirul Islam; Xueliang Bai; Christoph F. Wild...; Alexander Ling; James A. Grieve
• Keywords: Quantum key distribution; Beacon

Abstract Quantum random number generators find applications in both quantum and classical communications schemes, particularly security protocols where they can be used as a source of seed or key material. In this work, we describe the implementation generator on-board nanosatellite deployed low Earth orbit. Our samples shot noise from an entangled photon-pair based on spontaneous parametric down-conversion, linking entropy output to quantization down-converted beam. We present analyzed data orbiting instrument alongside taken ground-based engineering model statistical test suites indicate good match uniform distribution. Finally, use implement prototype for off-grid randomness beacon. This work paves way future orbit public beacons.