China is taking a step closer to the dream of sending data securely over long distances using quantum physics.

 

A 2-thousand kilometer long quantum communication line, known as Jing-Hu Trunk, was launched between Beijing and Shanghai on Friday. The line, connecting Beijing, Jinan, Hefei and Shanghai is the world's first trunk line for secure quantum telecommunications. It has already been applied to secret 'keys' in politics, finance, and national defence fields. By connecting the line with the world's first quantum satellite "Micius" launched last year, world first secure intercontinental video was successfully made between Beijing and Vienna.