"USTC Achieves Thousand-Kilometer Quantum Key Distribution"

Scientists from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and their collaborators from Tsinghua University, Jinan Institute of Quantum Technology, and Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology (SIMIT) have achieved point-to-point long-distance Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) over a distance of 1,002 kilometers. This achievement sets a new world record for non-relay QKD and offers a solution for high-speed intercity quantum communication. QKD is based on quantum mechanics principles and enables the secure distribution of keys between two remote parties. It can attain the highest level of security for confidential communication when combined with the "one-time pad" encryption technique. However, QKD's range has been limited by channel loss and system noise. This study's achievement has significant implications for the development of secure quantum communication. This article continues to discuss the achievement of point-to-point long-distance QKD over a distance of 1,002 km. 

SCIENMAG reports "USTC Achieves Thousand-Kilometer Quantum Key Distribution"