The next iteration of the small photon entangling quantum system (SPEQS-2.0)

Abstract

The Small Photon Entangling Quantum System (SPEQS) is an integrated instrument where the pump, photon pair source and detectors are combined within a single optical tray and electronics package. This footprint enables the instrument to be placed onboard nanosatellites or the CubeLab facility within the International Space Station. The first mission to understand the different environmental conditions that may affect the operation of an entangled photon source in low Earth orbit (LEO) is underway. Here we present a work towards a violation of Bell's inequality with a brightness and visibility that can facilitate quantum key distribution (QKD) from space to ground.