HAPS Based Quantum Network Design Optimization

High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) are gaining recognition as effective communication platforms due to their rapid deployment capabilities and cost efficiency. Unlike terrestrial infrastructures, HAPS provide enhanced flexibility and scalability, making them well-suited for the development of Non-Terrestrial Quantum Wide Area Networks (NTQWANs). These networks overcome the inherent limitations of Optical Fibers (OFs), such as significant photon losses over long distances, which hinder efficient quantum communication. HAPS offer a distinct advantage over terrestrial networks by enabling wide-area coverage without the need for extensive ground infrastructure. Despite their benefits, the performance of Free Space Optic (FSO) links can be affected by atmospheric disturbances and positional variations in HAPS. To address these challenges, this paper explores an architecture for Wide Area Quantum HAPS Networks (WAQHNs) that supports applications such as Distributed Quantum Computing (DQC) and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). Performance evaluation focuses on specific key metrics that are optical attenuation, fidelity, and entanglement rate, demonstrating that HAPS-based networks can outperform traditional OF-based systems.