The Canadian Space Agency’s Quantum Encryption and Science Satellite (QEYSSat) mission wants to test quantum technology that secures communications in space.

On June 14, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) awarded a contract worth $30 million to Honeywell for the design and implementation phases of the QEYSSat mission. With an expected launch in 2022, QEYSSat aims to demonstrate quantum key distribution (QKD) technology in space. This emerging encryption technology could offer Canada a new, more efficient method of securing information transmission.

Quantum computing and QKD explained

Instead of storing information using bits represented by 0s or 1s as conventional digital computers do, quantum computers utilize quantum bits, or qubits, in order encode information as 0s, 1s (or both at the same time).

“How Does a Quantum Computer Work?” by Veritasium, YouTube.

This “superposition of states” (with the other quantum mechanical phenomena of entanglement and tunneling) allows quantum computers to process enormous combinations of states at once.

Now let’s explain QKD. Quantum key distribution is the use of laser beams to transmit cryptographic keys securely using the quantum properties of photons in laser beams. The photons are coded in binary ones and zeroes which are then picked up by the receiving equipment. Theoretically, such makes it possible to transmit keys without them being obstructed.

Linking ground and space to transmit encryption keys

Through this contract, Honeywell will build, test, deliver, provide training for and commission the QEYSSat satellite, which will create a link between ground and space in order to transmit encryption keys. The QEYSSat mission is the result of a series of research and technology development activities by the Institute for Quantum Computing, with support from the Government of Canada. It aims to bring Canada closer to an operational quantum communications service from space, and advance technology to help meet Canada’s cybersecurity goals.

“Airborne quantum communication demonstration: the experiment” by Institute for Quantum Computing, YouTube.

The conclusions of the QEYSSat mission could be applied to develop future operational systems for government and provide safer access to services for the population. Commercial applications could include enhanced security for internet-based activities, as well as daily financial transactions like ATM banking.