Mathematical calculations show that quantum communication across interstellar space should be possible

Bob Yirka is a research scientist at Phys.org.

Physicists at the University of Edinburgh's School of Physics and Astronomy used mathematical calculations to show that quantum communications should be possible. The group describes their calculations and the possibility of extraterrestrial beings trying to communicate with us in a paper published in the journal Physical Review D.

Scientists have been researching the possibility of using quantum communications as a highly secure form of communication. It would be difficult to intercept such messages without detection. The researchers wondered if similar types of communications could be done across the space. They used math that describes the movement of X-rays across a medium to find out. They were looking to see if their calculations could show the degree of decoherence.

As quantum particles interact with obstructions in their path, they lose some or all of their unique characteristics, which makes them very delicate. Engineers working to build quantum networks have come up with ways to overcome the problem. The space between the stars is not dirty. Is it clean for quantum communications. The numbers show that it is. The space is so clean that X-rays can travel hundreds of thousands of light years without being subject to decoherence. The optical and microwave bands would work well together.

If other intelligent beings exist in the Milky Way, they could use quantum communication to communicate with us, and we could begin searching for them. It is suggested that quantum teleportation should be possible.

More information: Arjun Berera et al, Viability of quantum communication across interstellar distances, Physical Review D (2022). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevD.105.123033 Journal information: Physical Review D

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