China’s new satellite would create the world’s largest quantum network

China’s quantum network could soon span two continents, thanks to a satellite launched earlier today. Launched at 1:40pm ET, the Quantum Science Satellite is designed to distribute quantum-encrypted keys between relay stations in China and Europe. When working as planned, the result could enable unprecedented levels of security between parties on different continents.
The satellite works by the principles of quantum cryptography, similar to existing fiber-based quantum key distribution net