12 August 2021

Quantum Minutes – science straight from the lab

Quantum Cryptography: what is it really?

In the new video series "Quantum Minutes," researchers from the Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology explain complex quantum phenomena in just a few minutes. They break down the fundamentals of quantum science in an easy, understandable, and relatable manner, from the basics of quantum theory and cutting-edge research to quantum technologies that may change our daily lives in the future.

Experimental researchers open the doors to their state-of-the-art laboratories, while theoretical quantum scientists meet us at the whiteboard to offer insight into their latest research undertaken at MCQST. The series will take you through a discovery journey from quantum algorithms, how quantum simulations work, to the principles of secure quantum communication while also venturing in the field of astrophysics to explore how black holes affect quantum information. Each episode features a main topic within the seven MCQST Research Units, covering all themes in the field of quantum science and technology, such as quantum computing, quantum communication or quantum metrology, to name just a few.

We kick-off the series with Dr. Lukas Knips, quantum researcher in the group of Prof. Harald Weinfurter at the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München and the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ). His research focuses on free-space Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), including the demonstration of a secret-key-exchange using small satellites.

From his lab at LMU, Lukas explains quantum cryptography, clarifying what light polarization is and guiding us step-by-step through the process of sending a truly secure encrypted message by following Alice, Bob, and Eve – the already-famous stars of quantum communication. At the end of the journey, Lukas shares how these principles are used in his current research work – a small satellite (CubeSat) which will be launched in the near future.

We invite you to discover the science behind the complex and fascinating world of quantum physics.

Check out the first episode of the Quantum Minutes on our YouTube Channel and make sure to click the subscribe button to be updated about new episodes.

Curious to test the BB84 protocol for yourself?
QKD Demo (en)
QKD Demo (de)