Global quantum network with ground-based single-atom memories in optical cavities and satellite links

Journal article

The realization of a global quantum network holds the potential to enable groundbreaking applications such as secure quantum communication and blind quantum computing. However, building such a network remains a formidable challenge, primarily due to photon loss in optical fibers. In this work, we propose a quantum repeater architecture for distributing entanglement over intercontinental distances by leveraging low-Earth-orbit satellites equipped with spontaneous parametric down-conversion photon-pair sources and ground stations utilizing single-atom memories in optical cavities and single-photon detectors to implement the cavity-assisted photon scattering gates for high-fidelity entanglement mapping. The efficient entanglement swapping is achieved by performing high-fidelity Rydberg gates and readouts. We evaluate the entanglement distribution rates and fidelities by analyzing several key imperfections, including time-dependent two-photon transmission and time-dependent pair fidelity, for various satellite heights and ground station distances. We also investigate the impact of pair source fidelity, spin decoherence rate, and sky brightness on the repeater performance. Furthermore, we introduce a spatial-frequency multiplexing strategy within this architecture to enhance the design’s performance. Finally, we discuss in detail the practical implementation of this architecture. Our results show that this architecture enables entanglement distribution over intercontinental distances. For example, it can distribute over 10 000 pairs per flyby over 10 000 km with a fidelity above 90%, surpassing the capabilities of terrestrial quantum repeaters.

Authors: Ji, J-W; Sunami, S; Kikura, S; Goban, A; Simon, C

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: American Physical Society
• Journal: Physical Review Applied
• Volume: 25
• Issue: 2
• Article number: 024050
• Publication date: 2026-02-17
• Acceptance date: 2026-01-13
• DOI: 10.1103/vcrh-hl73
• EISSN: 2331-7019
• Language: English