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Quantum communication across a 250-kilometre optical-fibre network

Quantum communication over long distances can be achieved by exploiting a property of light called coherence. The coherence-based exchange of a ‘quantum encryption key’ over an optical telecommunications network demonstrates the feasibility of implementing a large-scale quantum network in existing telecommunications infrastructure.
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This is a summary of: Pittaluga, M. et al. Long-distance coherent quantum communications in deployed telecom networks. Nature 640, 911–917 (2025).

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doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-025-01173-1

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