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A CubeSat Payload Prepares a Continuous-Variable Quantum Downlink
The SPOQC transmitter is designed, built and tested for a low-Earth-orbit quantum-key-distribution demonstration.
Summary
The SPOQC transmitter is designed, built and tested for a low-Earth-orbit quantum-key-distribution demonstration.
The paper presents the payload transmitter and test results for a continuous-variable QKD downlink aboard the UK SPOQC mission, launched in March 2026. It describes a mission component, not an operational secure service or completed key exchange.
Why it matters
The SPOQC transmitter is designed, built and tested for a low-Earth-orbit quantum-key-distribution demonstration.
Limits and context
- It describes a mission component, not an operational secure service or completed key exchange.
Key claims
The SPOQC transmitter is designed, built and tested for a low-Earth-orbit quantum-key-distribution demonstration.
Qualification: It describes a mission component, not an operational secure service or completed key exchange.
Evidence: source-2026-11-07-020
Sources
- arXiv preprint 2611.07861, original v1arXiv · primary research
Corrections
: Publication note: This November 7 edition was assembled before its scheduled 9:00 AM America/Detroit reveal but is being published late after recovery from a local build interruption. Its original reporting, image-generation times and scheduled publishAt are preserved.