Scientists from South Africa and China have achieved a historic feat in quantum communication. They successfully established the world’s longest ultra-secure quantum satellite link, spanning 12,900 km. This marks the first quantum satellite link in the Southern Hemisphere.
The experiment used China’s quantum microsatellite, Jinan-1, in low Earth orbit. Encrypted images were transmitted securely between China and South Africa. The groundbreaking results were published in Nature, showcasing the significance of this advancement.
THE CORE OF UNBREAKABLE SECURITY
The experiment relied on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), a method that generates encryption keys in real-time. Scientists used one-time pad encryption, ensuring absolute security. Stellenbosch University and the University of Science and Technology of China collaborated on this pioneering research.
Stellenbosch’s clear skies and low humidity created ideal conditions for the quantum satellite link. The ground station generated 1.07 million secure bits in a single satellite pass, demonstrating high efficiency.
HOW QUANTUM COMMUNICATION WORKS
Quantum communication harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics for secure data transmission. QKD encodes encryption keys into single photons, making them immune to interception. Any attempt to measure or copy them alters their quantum state, ensuring unparalleled security.
China remains a global leader in quantum technology under Prof Jian-Wei Pan. The country has developed a 2,000 km terrestrial fiber-based quantum network. This system connects 32 trusted nodes across major cities, including Beijing and Shanghai. In 2017, China demonstrated a 7,600 km intercontinental quantum link with Austria using its first quantum satellite, Micius.
THE SCIENTISTS BEHIND THE BREAKTHROUGH
Prof Juan Yin led the Chinese research team, continuing his groundbreaking work in quantum satellite communication. He previously helped develop Micius and led earlier intercontinental quantum experiments.
Dr Yaseera Ismail headed the South African research team at Stellenbosch University’s Department of Physics. She played a crucial role in establishing the quantum satellite link. Prof Francesco Petruccione, an expert in quantum computing, has spearheaded quantum communication research in South Africa. His contributions include creating one of the first fiber-optic quantum networks in Durban.
STRENGTHENING SOUTH AFRICA’S ROLE IN QUANTUM SCIENCE
This achievement supports the upcoming launch of the Stellenbosch Centre for Quantum Science and Technology. The center aims to advance South Africa’s quantum research and innovation landscape.
Dr Yaseera Ismail emphasized the importance of collaboration: “International and national partnerships drive innovation. Establishing the first quantum satellite link in the Southern Hemisphere is a significant step toward building a robust quantum ecosystem.”
Prof Francesco Petruccione added: “This achievement positions South Africa as a key player in global quantum technology. Scientific collaborations accelerate breakthroughs and help transform research into real-world applications.”
Prof Sibusiso Moyo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research at Stellenbosch University, highlighted the importance of investment in quantum science. “This breakthrough underscores the need to support quantum computing. Our researchers continue to push scientific boundaries. This aligns with Stellenbosch University’s Vision 2040, which aims to make it Africa’s leading research-intensive institution.”
The Future of Ultra-Secure Quantum Networks
This milestone with a quantum satellite link paves the way for the future of quantum security. As cyber threats grow, quantum technology offers next-generation encryption solutions. South Africa’s expanding role in quantum research strengthens its presence on the global stage.
This success brings the world closer to widespread adoption of quantum networks. As nations collaborate, quantum communication will shape the future of secure data transmission worldwide.