Insider Brief
Researchers demonstrated quantum key distribution across an 18-kilometer free-space link connected to conventional fiber infrastructure using adaptive optics.
The system generated secret keys at about 1,000 bits per second with superconducting detectors and 200 bits per second with room-temperature detectors.
Faster adaptive optics and automated fiber alignment could improve performance under strong turbulence and support future terrestrial and satellite quantum networks.
Researchers demonstrated quantum key distribution across an 18-kilometer free-space link by using adaptive optics to counter atmospheric turbulence and connect the signal to conventional fiber infrastructure.
