The UK is testing quantum technology to make satellite communications ‘virtually unhackable’

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.

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.

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.

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.