The effect of turbulence on a quantum-key distribution scheme based on transformation from the polarization to the time domain: laboratory experiment

In this paper we analyze the turbulence affects on a quantum-key distribution (QKD system and demonstrate them experimentally. We demonstrate a QKD scheme, in which we transform polarization states to time slots. This transformation to the time domain eliminates the need for numerous detectors or moving parts, and simplifies the system architecture by achieving a compact, lightweight and reliable system. These attributes are broadly recognized as being important features of future mobile quantum communication applications such as will be found in satellites and airplanes. We have demonstrated the feasibility of our design.