Today’s headlines announce a significant milestone: India is set to join the quantum satellite race, aiming to establish a hack-proof communication network. The satellite will play a pivotal role in building a larger quantum communications network under the National Quantum Mission. To most of us, this might sound like Greek and Latin—a complex technological development seemingly out of reach for those without expertise in encryption, hacking, or communication networks.
In this article, I aim to simplify this concept for the layperson, breaking it down in the easiest way possible. You don’t need to be a communication engineer or have any prior knowledge of cryptography or quantum technology to understand it. My goal is to explain these advanced ideas in plain, jargon-free language, ensuring that anyone—regardless of their background—can grasp the basics of this fascinating subject. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
