Quantum Key Distribution Breakthrough: Secure Communication Over 1,000 km

Researchers from Chinese institutions have achieved a non-relay quantum key distribution over a distance of 1,002 km, setting a new world record for non-relay QKD. The experiment utilized twin-field QKD, ultra-low-loss fiber, and ultra-low-noise superconducting single-photon detectors, paving the way for high-speed intercity quantum communication networks. The team achieved TF-QKD over a record distance of 1002 km, with a key rate of 0.0034 bps, demonstrating the feasibility of the SNS-TF-QKD scheme at extremely long distances and high key rates in many practical scenarios.