Quantum Satellite:
India aims to launch a quantum satellite for quantum communications within 2-3 years.
- A quantum satellite is a communications satellite that uses quantum physics to secure its signals.
- Purpose is to Enhance Signal Security: Protect against threats from quantum computing.
- Facilitate Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): Enable unbreakable encryption through QKD.
Quantum Cryptography and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD):
- Quantum Cryptography: Uses the principles of quantum physics to secure messages.
- Function: Securely share encryption keys such that any eavesdropping can be detected, aborting the transmission if compromised.
- Mechanisms:
- Quantum Measurement: Measuring a photon changes its state, thus revealing any eavesdropping.
- Quantum Entanglement: Entangled photons instantly reflect changes in one another, ensuring secure key distribution.
National Quantum Mission (NQM):
- The NQM is a program by the Department of Science & Technology designed to accelerate the use of quantum physics in developing advanced communication and sensing systems.
- The Union Cabinet approved it in April 2023, with a budget of ₹6,000 crore, to be implemented from 2023 to 2031.
- The world’s first quantum communications satellite was launched by China in 2016.
- Acts as the source of pairs of entangled photons, whose properties remain intertwined regardless of the distance.
- This entanglement forms the basis of the most secure forms of quantum cryptography.
