China launches first quantum satellite, aimed at creating “hack-proof” quantum communications

China launched a two-stage orbital carrier rocket early Tuesday morning carrying the ‘Micius' satellite, believed to be the world's first quantum satellite.

The satellite's encryption technologies are part of that nation's efforts toward improving data security by creating encrypted communications that cannot by hacked.

As security pros consider the impact that quantum computing would have on encryption and security capabilities, researchers across the world are in a race to create quantum technology.

The satellite will allow Chinese scientists to test quantum key distribution between the satellite and ground stations, according to Xinhua, China's state-owned news service. China hopes to eventually use the satellite for secure quantum communications, the Xinhua report said. 

During the National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee's (NSTAC) annual meeting in May, Andreessen Horowitz co-founder and general partner Marc Andreessen said he is “optimistic” that Quantum capabilities could be achieved within ten years.