Alexander Tsado and Robin Miller
December 3, 2025
The UK is testing quantum technology to make satellite communications ‘virtually unhackable’
This video is part of: Centre for Frontier Technologies and Innovation
A new facility aims to secure sensitive data against future cyber threats. It’s called the Quantum Communications Hub Optical Ground Station (HOGS). The £2.5 million system was designed by scientists at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. HOGS will use a sophisticated laser system to communicate with satellites using technology called quantum key distribution (QKD) to securely exchange encryption keys which are then used to encrypt messages.
The UK is trialling cutting-edge quantum technology to secure sensitive satellite communications. The initiative centers on the Quantum Communications Hub Optical Ground Station (HOGS), developed by Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh.
How quantum key distribution makes data nearly unhackable
HOGS uses quantum key distribution (QKD), which transmits encryption keys via photons in quantum states. If anyone tries to intercept them, the quantum state changes—making any breach detectable and the system virtually unbreakable.
A new quantum-secure global network
HOGS will connect with the upcoming Satellite Platform for Optical Quantum Communications (SPOQC) to build a secure, international quantum internet. The system will be used to protect critical sectors like banking and healthcare.
Preparing for a quantum future
Quantum computers could one day crack today’s encryption, so researchers are also developing post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to keep data safe from both classical and quantum threats.
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