Description

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Context

India is advancing in quantum technologies with plans to launch a quantum satellite within 2-3 years as stated by chairman of the Mission Governing Board of the National Quantum Mission.

This initiative aims to facilitate secure quantum communication marking a significant step in the country’s technological development.

About National Quantum Mission (NQM)

The National Quantum Mission approved in April 2023 with a budget of ₹6,000 crore is designed to accelerate the use of quantum physics in advanced communication and sensing systems.

Running from 2023 to 2031 the mission includes the development of quantum satellites as part of a broader push to advance quantum technologies.

What is a Quantum Satellite?

A quantum satellite is a communication device that uses principles of quantum physics to secure messages. Unlike classical satellites, it employs quantum mechanics to encrypt data offering enhanced security against interception even by quantum computers.

Functions

The primary purpose of a quantum satellite is to facilitate Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) ensuring secure communication channels by:

Quantum systems reveal any attempt to intercept the communication.

Distributing encryption keys securely between two parties.

Using quantum physics to ensure robust data protection.

Timeline

India aims to launch its first quantum satellite by 2026 integrating research from institutions like the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru and leveraging the Indian Astronomical Observatory in Ladakh for optimal conditions.

Fields Benefiting from Quantum Communication

Highly secure military communication.

Banking and Finance: Fraud-proof data exchange.

Secure transmissions for deep space missions.

Protecting sensitive medical data.

Safeguarding power grids and infrastructure.

Addressing Security Issues

Quantum satellites counter security threats by

Employing quantum cryptography to prevent eavesdropping.

Protecting against quantum computing’s potential to break classical encryption.

Detecting and aborting compromised transmissions via quantum entanglement and quantum measurement.

What is Quantum Cryptography?

Quantum cryptography uses quantum mechanics principles particularly for secure key distribution. By encoding keys into quantum particles like photons any eavesdropping attempt alters the particle’s state exposing the breach.

Pros and Cons of Quantum Key Distribution

Aspect	Pros	Cons
Security	Virtually unhackable due to quantum principles.	Vulnerable to hardware-based attacks and denial-of-service (DoS) interruptions.
Eavesdropping Detection	Detects interception immediately ensuring secure communication.	Requires expensive infrastructure for implementation.
Scalability	Enables secure communication over long distances with satellites.	Limited scalability due to challenges in upgrading hardware.
Data Loss Compensation	Exploits quantum entanglement for secure transmission.	The no-cloning theorem restricts compensating for signal losses during transmission.
Real-World Application	Innovative approach in cryptography for ultra-secure communication.	Authentication issues arise in identifying transmission sources.

India’s Research and Global Comparisons

Research from the Raman Research Institute indicates that Ladakh offers optimal conditions for satellite-based QKD with a beam distance of 500 km.

China operates the world’s largest QKD network with three quantum satellites and four ground stations.

Challenges

Developing scalable hardware and addressing post-quantum cryptography challenges.

High investment requirements for quantum communication infrastructure.

Establishing global standards for QKD and quantum cryptography.

Despite these challenges India’s efforts in quantum satellite development signify a major leap in securing communication technologies and positioning the nation at the forefront of quantum innovation.

Sources:

Hindu

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Examine the significance of quantum satellites in ensuring secure communication in the age of cyber threats. Discuss the challenges India faces in developing and deploying such technology. 250 Words.