Experimental Quantum Communications

The aim of this project is to look into the development of entangled photon sources for applications to quantum communications, such as quantum key distribution using entanglement based protocols. The focus will on free space quantum communications. This includes terrestrial communication systems as well as deployment on CubeSats for long range satellite based communications. Satellite based systems require reducing the SWaP requirements, which may include replacing bulk optics with waveguided and more integrated optical systems. They also require durability and the ability to operate in space environment, so this will be taken into account in the development and testing of sources. This project should also include developing and working with existing software to model the performance of any systems built in the lab.