Chinese-led team achieves quantum-secure communication between China, South Africa

By Saadet Gokce

ISTANBUL (AA) - A team of scientists led by China has achieved quantum-secured communication over a distance of 12,900 kilometers (8,015 miles) between China and South Africa.

This breakthrough in quantum technology, using the Jinan-1 micro-nano satellite and compact ground stations, demonstrates the potential for secure global quantum communication, according to state-run Xinhua News.

Researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China, in collaboration with Stellenbosch University, successfully established real-time quantum key distribution (QKD) between the satellite and miniaturized ground stations, including one in Stellenbosch, marking a world first.

QKD enables two parties to generate a shared, secret key with security based on quantum mechanics principles under ideal conditions.

The team has set a new record for the longest-distance hacker-proof communication achieved to date.

The findings were published Wednesday in the journal Nature.