Multicarrier Multiplexing Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution at Terahertz Bands under Indoor Environment and in Inter-Satellite Links Communication

Abstract

We propose a continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) scheme at terahertz (THz) bands based on multicarrier multiplexing (MCM) technology. In this scheme, multiple Gaussian modulated subcarriers are coupled to transmit multipath superposed thermal Gaussian states. At the receiver, optical discrete Fourier transform (ODFT) is used to demultiplex the received subcarriers, and the keys can be generated in parallel by homodyne detection and post processing. We analyze the security of the scheme against the optimal collective Gaussian attack under indoor environment and in inter-satellite links respectively. Results indicate that by using MCM technology, each subchannel may be affected by crosstalk, resulting in slight shortening of the maximal transmission distance while the total secret key rate can be greatly increased. We also verify the feasibility of higher key rate and longer distance THz-QKD by using MCM technology in inter-satellite links communication. We expect this work will provide an efficient path to build a global quantum communication network.