Quantum-assisted master clock in the sky: Global synchronization from satellites at subnanosecond precision

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2025

Abstract

This paper develops a protocol to synchronize clocks on board a network of satellites equipped with quantum resources. We show that, in such a constellation, satellites reinforce each other's sync capabilities, forming a common clock that is more stable and precise than its constituents. We envision the resulting network as a master clock able to distribute time across the globe, providing the basis for a future quantum global navigation satellite system or a space-based quantum network. As an example of its capabilities, we show that a constellation of 50 satellites equipped with modest quantum resources, and distributed amongst five orbits at an altitude of 500 km, allows the synchronization of clocks spread across the globe at subnanosecond precision.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Physical Review Applied

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