ThinkQuantum and University of Padua Demonstrate 18 km Free-Space QKD
Researchers at the University of Padua and ThinkQuantum have demonstrated intermodal quantum key distribution over an 18 km free-space link in northeastern Italy. Adaptive optics at a 410 mm urban telescope coupled the telecom-wavelength signal into single-mode fiber and produced secret keys at about 200 bit/s with room-temperature detectors. Link parameters, detector comparison, and network-design implications are covered here.
August 26, 2026