Topology Abstraction-Based Routing Scheme for Secret-Key Provisioning in Hybrid GEO/LEO Quantum Satellite Networks

Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a promising technique to resist the threat against quantum computers. However, the high loss of quantum signals over a long-distance optical fiber is an obstacle for QKD in the intercontinental domain. In this context, the quantum satellite network is preferred over the terrestrial quantum optical network. Due to the mobility of satellites, the satellite topology is dynamic in the quantum satellite network, which remains a challenge for routing. In hybrid geostationary-earth-orbit (GEO)/low-earth-orbit (LEO) quantum satellite networks, the lack of an efficient scheduling scheme for GEO/LEO satellites also limits the construction of quantum satellite networks. Therefore, this paper provides a topology abstraction-based routing scheme for secret-key provisioning, where the dynamic physical topology is translated into a quasi-static abstracted topology. This scheme contributes to saving the precious secret key resources. In order to improve the success probability of long-distance QKD requests, three novel resource-scheduling heuristic algorithms are proposed in hybrid GEO/LEO quantum satellite networks. Simulation results indicate that the proposed algorithms can improve the success probability of QKD requests by 47% compared to the benchmark.