The imminent launch of the quantum communication satellite marks a breakthrough in China's development of quantum technology. Scientists hope the satellite can help unravel one of the strangest phenomena in quantum physics -- quantum entanglement. By beaming individual entangled photons between space and ground stations, the satellite should be able to test whether the quantum's entanglement property extends over the record-breaking distance. Before launching the satellite and starting experiments, Chinese scientists have done a considerable amount of work to make sure the operation will work well in the sky.

"This kind of experiments have never been done in sky. In order to receive good signals for such a long distance, the materials we use for making signals are the best in the world. At the same time, we should make sure the detector work well in high radiation levels as the detector will go to work for next two years. Based on all of the preparations, related experiments are able to develop in the area," Pan Jianwei, chief scientist of Quantum Communication Satellite Project, said.

Chief scientist Pan Jianwei says China will complete and put into operation the world's first secure quantum communication backbone network later this year. Pan says quantum communication will become part of everyday life in about 10 years, securing online banking and payments. The two thousand-kilometer backbone network will be used in the fields of finance, electronics and government affairs.