University of Waterloo

Purpose

Satellite based quantum communication links currently suffer from low photon count rates, due to the limited performance of a single-channel entangled photon source. This project funding will enable the team to design and demonstrate a chip-based entangled photon source suitable for high-loss satellite channels and achieve ultra-high signal rates and multi-channel multiplexing capability. This work will establish a novel solution for an integrated entangled photon source with an integrated pump laser and support multi-channel operation of a satellite link, while also support the interconnectability to multiple user end-points on the ground. The design of this novel source is intended to have a small format, be robust and portable.