Experimental demonstration of drone-based quantum key distribution

Abstract

Quantum state transferring has been demonstrated using drones via entanglement distribution. Here we demonstrate the first drone-based quantum task, for quantum key distribution (QKD). Compact and polarization-maintaining acquisition, pointing, and tracking system and QKD modules are developed and loaded on a home-made octocopter, within takeoff weight of 30 kg. Real-time QKD is performed over 200 m distance with 8.48 kHz average secret key rate, using polarization-coded decoy-state BB84 protocol. With the capability of secret key distribution using a drone, wireless communication can be expected with enhanced security in the quantum approach, between mobile nodes towards a network.