Quantum Communications

Quantum technologies are creating a significant shift in ICT, moving beyond the binary bit (1,0) to the qubit (|0ñ, |1ñ) and the qudit (multi-state (d) quantum system), providing exponential increase in the amount of information that can be stored and transferred. Additional quantum properties, such as entanglement and teleportation are the enablers for naturally secure and fast communications. Most research to date has focused on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) as a response to the anticipated capacity of Quantum Computers to break current encryption schemes. This thematic area primarily investigates QKD with an eye on optical systems miniaturisation and transporting qudits across communications networks. 

Key areas of expertise:

• Quantum Key Distribution 

QKD technology is a key component for securing future quantum communication systems. It is perhaps the most well known application of quantum communications and considered the foundation of post quantum security. The main schemes are discrete variable (DVQKD) and continuous variable (CVQKD). Here we research the different types of QKD and how they can be applied within different network configurations. 

• Optical Systems 

CVQKD has the advantage that it can be made from existing telecom components and it uses techniques from classical coherent communication systems. However there exists several challenges when developing quantum optical communication systems. For example, optical amplification is not allowed. Here we focus on designing and developing optical systems for a set of quantum cryptographic QKD schemes. 

• Component Miniaturisation 

QKD is the most promising technique for securely sharing cryptographic keys on a global scale via satellite networks. A major challenge exists to convert large ground-based quantum technologies to achieve QKD in space. Here we focus on miniaturization of components which involves a combination of customized in-house design and development of components, along with commercial off-the-shelf components. 

SEE Space Network

SEE Space is a network led by Walton Institute in Waterford Institute of Technology and Blackrock Castle Observatory in Munster Technological University. The goal of SEE Space is to combine expertise in Space4.0 and ICT to create impact for Society, Economy, and the Environment.