More optimal relativistic quantum key distribution

A great challenge in the field of quantum cryptography is the design and implementation of optimal quantum key distribution (QKD) scheme. An optimal scheme in terms of security is the so-called relativistic quantum key distribution; it ensures the security of the system by using both quantum phenomena and relativity. However, the existing relativistic schemes have not demonstrated optimality in terms of efficiency and rate (including secret key rate). Here we report two point-to-point relativistic quantum key distribution schemes implemented with weak coherent pulses. Both schemes rely on high-dimensional quantum systems (phase and polarization encodings are utilized for establishing key bits). One of the proposed schemes is a system comprised of two sequentially connected interferometers, as the first (interferometer) controls the behavior of the second one. The other proposed scheme represents a setup of a classic relativistic QKD, but with slight modification. Both of the proposed schemes are characterized with high secret key rate. The latter scheme has the highest secret key rate of all the relativistic QKD protocols. However, the values for the secret key rate are relevant for distances of up to 150 km. The former scheme has lower secret key rate, but longer operating distances (the work could operate at distances of up to 320 km). Those values of rate are obtained without disturbing the security. Secret-key-rate comparison between distinct models is reported. The proposed relativistic models are compared to twin-field QKD protocols. Furthermore, the work proposes a metric for evaluating the optimality of a QKD. It is defined as a ratio between the secret key rate (at a given distance) and the amount of quantum resources (qubits) used in the QKD of concern. It is shown that one of the proposed schemes in this article is the most optimal relativistic key distribution and more optimal than the original twin-field. It is also verified that the proposed schemes excels the original twin-field in terms of secret key rate, but for short distances.