Physical publicly verifiable randomness from pulsars

We demonstrate how radio pulsars can be used as random number generators. Specifically, we focus on publicly verifiable randomness (PVR), in which the same sequence of trusted and numbers is obtained by multiple parties. PVR a critical building block for many processes algorithms (including cryptography, scientific trials, electoral audits international treaties). However, current approaches (based theory) may soon become vulnerable to quantum computers, motivating growing demand based natural physical phenomena. In this context, explore potential source. first show that bit sequences extracted from measured flux densities bright millisecond pulsar pass standardised tests randomness. then quantify three illustrative methods bit-extraction density sequences, using simultaneous observations second carried out with Parkes telescope Australia Five-hundred-metre Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) China, supported numerical simulations. indeed at both observatories, but ubiquitous presence radiometer noise needs accounted when determining expected error rate between two independent sequences. discuss our results context an imaginary use-case mutually distrusting parties wish obtain sequence, exploring mitigate against malicious participant.