NEWS – Scientists Identify Ladakh’s Astronomical Observatory as Prime Site for Quantum Communication

KEY HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE RRI STUDY

• Location Identified: The Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Hanle, Ladakh, was recognized as an ideal site for space-based quantum communication by researchers from Bengaluru’s Raman Research Institute (RRI).
  • Other sites evaluated:
    • Mount Abu, Rajasthan
    • Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital

ABOUT QUANTUM-KEY DISTRIBUTION (QKD)

• Definition:
  A method of secure communication leveraging quantum mechanics rather than traditional cryptographic methods.
• How it Works:
  • A key (sequence of numbers/letters) is shared between two parties.
  • The technology uses quantum principles to detect eavesdropping attempts.
• Security Advantage:
  • Quantum measurements are invasive. Any interception alters the signal, exposing eavesdropping.

Significance of QKD

• Applications:
  • High-security industries like banking, defence, and healthcare.
• Frequency Range:
  • Operates in the terahertz (THz) range, higher than classical communication’s megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz)

WHY THE IAO IN LADAKH IS OPTIMAL

• Study Parameters:
  • Researchers considered temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, and wind speeds.
  • Simulated quantum signal transmission to evaluate conditions.
• Advantages of IAO’s Environment:
  • Dry and cold conditions
  • Low atmospheric pressure
  • Minimal water vapour and oxygen concentrations
  • Result: Least signal loss compared to other evaluated locations.