The world’s first satellite that can achieve quantum communication between the space and the Earth will be launched in July. As the basic unit of matter to carry energy, the quantum is inseparable and cannot be copied. The no-cloning theory of quantum mechanics is a breakthrough that ensures data encoded in photons is secure on the networks and cannot be captured or copied during transmission. The 2,000-km quantum communication main network between Beijing and Shanghai will be fully operational in the second half of this year. Government agencies and banks in cities along the route can use it first.

CAS news release, May 21, 2016