ABSTRACT
We present a time synchronization method for correlation of photon arrival times for quantum communication. The method employs a low-power, low-frequency synchronization beacon that shares the quantum channel and is detected using the same single-photon detectors already present in the quantum communication system. We show experimentally that the system jitter approaches the system resolution limit with negligible impact on the quantum channel in realistic use cases. The presented method is particularly suitable for long distance quantum communication with large clock drifts, such as quantum links involving satellites.
ABSTRACT
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Deep Space Quantum Link mission concept enables a unique set of science experiments by establishing robust quantum optical links across extremely long baselines. Potential mission configurations include establishing a quantum link between the Lunar Gateway moon-orbiting space station and nodes on or near the Earth. This publication summarizes the principal experimental goals of the Deep Space Quantum Link. These goals, identified through a multi-year design study conducted by the authors, include long-range teleportation, tests of gravitational coupling to quantum states, and advanced tests of quantum nonlocality.