India’s Progress in Quantum Satellite Technology

Sub : Sci

Sec: Awareness in IT and Computer

Why in News

India is advancing rapidly in the field of quantum communication by preparing to launch its first quantum satellite. This move will place the country among an elite group capable of creating a hack-proof communication network. Concurrently, Google’s new quantum processor, Willow, has garnered attention for its groundbreaking advancements in quantum computing, offering insights into the future of technology.

National Quantum Mission (NQM):

The National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to foster the development of quantum computing, communication, measurement, and sensing technologies.
Implementation: By the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Ministry of Science & Technology.
Timeline: 2023–2031.
Focus Areas: Development of Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing, and Quantum Materials.
Building infrastructure for high-performance quantum computers (up to 1,000 qubits) and satellite-based secure quantum communications across India.

Satellite-Based Quantum Communication:

A quantum satellite is expected to be launched within 2–3 years by the Department of Space.
Enables secure communication over large distances using quantum principles.
Quantum Satellites for transmitting entangled photons to ground stations.
Integration of QKD for secure global communication.
Applications: National security, secure diplomatic exchanges, and encrypted data transmission
Acts as a complementary medium to optical fibre networks, enabling long-distance quantum data transmission.
Optical fibre transmission is limited to 100–250 km due to photon energy loss. In contrast, satellites offer a wider footprint.

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD):

A secure communication method using quantum mechanics to encrypt and exchange keys between two parties.
Immune to traditional hacking techniques.
Detection of any eavesdropping attempts.

Quantum satellites use QKD to securely transfer encrypted information over vast distances.
India plans to establish secure quantum communication links between ground stations over a range of 2,000 km domestically and internationally.

About Qubit:

The basic unit of quantum information, analogous to a bit in classical computing but capable of existing in a superposition of states (0 and 1 simultaneously).
Exploits phenomena like entanglement and superposition for superior computational power.

About Google’s Willow Chip:

Willow marks a significant leap towards achieving practical quantum supremacy.
Can perform calculations in under five minutes that would take the fastest classical supercomputers approximately ten septillion years.
Incorporates 105 qubits, nearly double its predecessor (Sycamore).
Willow’s design significantly reduces errors, addressing one of the primary challenges in quantum computing.
The retention time (T1) of qubits has increased by five times, enhancing stability and accuracy.
Willow lays the groundwork for building larger, fault-tolerant quantum systems capable of addressing real-world problems.