China creating world's first 'quantum satellite'

China is preparing to launch the world’s first quantum satellite to provide a secure encrypted communications network via the transmission of protons. According to the University of Science and Technology of China, the project will employ a minimum of 20 satellites in geostationary orbit, with experts predicting this announcement will launch a new space race between China, Europe, and the US.

Beijing is reportedly preparing to launch the world's first "quantum satellite," as a proving ground for various unnamed experimental communication technologies, according to The Sun

If the first satellite is a success, it will serve as proof of concept for the construction of an advanced and secure communication network based on quantum transmissions.

The idea behind the technology is to send protons, a primary element in an atom, over long distances. Arranged in specific configurations, the protons can be used to send encrypted messages that will be difficult to decode by a third party and hard to tamper with, as any interference would leave a obvious trace.