In a historic achievement, scientists from China and South Africa have successfully established the world’s longest intercontinental quantum satellite communication link, spanning an impressive 12,900 kilometers. This milestone, facilitated by China’s Jinan-1 quantum microsatellite, marks the first-ever quantum satellite communication link in the Southern Hemisphere.
The collaboration between the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) and Stellenbosch University in South Africa utilized Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) to generate secure encryption keys in real time. This technology ensures ultra-secure data transfer by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics, making it virtually unbreakable.
“This achievement serves as a strong foundation for our future plans of launching multiple microsatellites and establishing a vast network of optical ground stations,” noted a scientist involved in the project. “It represents considerable progress towards trusted-node constellations for widespread satellite QKD services.”
Dr. Yaseera Ismail, the lead experimentalist at Stellenbosch University, emphasized the importance of international collaboration: “Implementing the first quantum satellite link in the Southern Hemisphere is an outstanding achievement for South Africa, demonstrating the significant potential to develop a thriving quantum ecosystem.”
Professor Francesco Petruccione, Director of the National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences at Stellenbosch University, added, “This successful demonstration of quantum satellite technology firmly positions South Africa as a significant player in the rapidly evolving global quantum technology ecosystem.”
China’s leadership in quantum technology is evident in its extensive infrastructure, including a 2,000 km terrestrial fiber-based quantum network. This collaboration not only enhances Africa-China relations but also paves the way for future quantum research and innovation in South Africa, particularly with the upcoming launch of the Stellenbosch Centre for Quantum Science and Technology.
