Insider Brief:
- The Canadian Space Agency awarded over CA$1.4 million (approximately over $970,000) to QEYnet in Maple, Ontario, to develop and demonstrate Earth-to-space quantum key distribution technology and address cybersecurity challenges in satellite communication.
- QEYnet’s QKD project will test the ability to load encryption keys in orbit, conduct Earth-based QKD demonstrations, and validate the technology’s operational framework through space-based testing.
- This funding supports the CSA’s 2022 initiative to advance research and development in space technologies, enabling Canadian organizations to gain flight heritage and enhance technological capabilities.
- Image Credit: Quantum receiver by QEYnet
PRESS RELEASE — In a recent release, the Canadian Space Agency announced over CA$1.4 million (approximately over $970,000) in funding to QEYnet, based in Maple, Ontario, to advance the development and demonstration of Earth-to-space quantum key distribution technology. This follows the CSA’s announcement of opportunity released in August 2022 and intends to address pressing security challenges in satellite communication.
Satellites are highly relevant within the infrastructure of modern society, supporting essential services such as navigation, weather forecasting, and communication. Current satellite encryption methods rely on cryptographic keys installed prior to launch. However, these keys cannot be updated once a satellite is in orbit, leaving systems vulnerable if keys are compromised. With the development of quantum computers, existing encryption methods may become outdated, increasing the risk of cyberattacks.
To address these concerns, QEYnet is developing quantum key distribution technology, which uses the quantum properties of photons to create encryption keys. A key advantage of QKD is its ability to detect eavesdropping attempts, as any interception or measurement of a photon’s quantum state will disturb it, alerting the communicating parties. This feature may provide a level of security unmatched by classical encryption methods, which rely on complex mathematical algorithms that could become vulnerable with the continued development of quantum computing.
The upcoming demonstration of QEYnet’s QKD technology will involve space-based testing to assess its performance. Specifically, the project will focus on:
- Loading new keys in orbit: Developing the capability to securely update encryption keys after satellite deployment.
- Earth-based QKD demonstration: Demonstrating the transmission of quantum-secured keys between ground-based locations.
- Concept validation: Evaluating the operational framework for the technology in real-world conditions.
This funding announcement is part of the the Canadian Space Agency’s effort to support innovation in the nation’s growing space sector. Originally introduced in August 2022 through the “Space Technology Demonstrations for SMEs, Not-for-Profit Organizations and Universities” initiative, the program was designed to encourage the research and development of space technologies that could gain flight heritage and demonstrate new capabilities.
