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Physics

Aliens could send us interstellar quantum messages using X-rays

Quantum communication technology may allow for information to be securely sent through interstellar space without being disrupted by gravity or solar winds

By Karmela Padavic-Callaghan

1 June 2022

DRMN7A BERN - JAN 22 2014: Zimmerwald observatoty is tracking sattelites with laser on January 22, 2014, Bern, Switzerland.

An observatory tracking satellites with a laser

Dmitry Evteev/Alamy

If aliens wanted to send us messages from 30 light years away, their best bet may be to use X-rays and quantum technology.

On Earth, researchers have previously encoded information into the quantum states of particles of light, or photons. Using the photons’ special properties, they have transmitted that information securely. Research teams have sent the data to other labs around the world – as a proof of concept for a quantum internet – and to satellites orbiting Earth.

and at the University of Edinburgh in…

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