Himalayan heights potentially perfect for India's ‘Quantum Leap’ to space: Study

In a groundbreaking study, scientists from the Raman Research Institute (RRI) have identified the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Hanle, Ladakh, as the most suitable site in India for satellite-based quantum communications. Leveraging India's geographical diversity, the research analysed open-source meteorological data from Hanle, Mt Abu (Rajasthan), and ARIES, Nainital (Uttarakhand). Hanle’s cold desert climate, low atmospheric water vapor, and oxygen levels make it ideal for establishing a ground station for quantum key distribution (QKD) through uplink and downlink quantum communications. This pioneering research, published in EPJ Quantum Technology, emphasizes the potential of Hanle's natural settings to facilitate long-distance quantum signal transmission with minimal atmospheric distortion. 

The study also explored the technical aspects of transmitting quantum signals through Earth's atmosphere, including the use of beacon signals, telescope operations, and signal divergence control. Researchers worked with wavelengths of 370 THz (810 nm) for the main signal, using smaller telescopes for signal magnification and detection. Hanle exhibited the lowest signal loss (44dB) among the studied sites, followed by Mt Abu (47dB) and Nainital (48dB). These findings provide a universal template for site selection and link-budget estimation, crucial for future quantum satellite projects in India and globally, targeting secure communications via Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. 

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.