  The measurement-device-independent (MDI) QKD is considered to be an
alternative to overcome the currently trusted satellite paradigm. However, the
feasibility of the space-based MDI-QKD remains unclear in terms of the factors:
the high-loss uplink between a ground station and a satellite, the limited
duration when two ground stations are simultaneously visible, as well as the
rigorous requirements for the two-photon interference when performing the
Bell-state Measurement (BSM). In this paper, we present a feasibility
assessment of space-based MDI-QKD based on the Micius satellite. Integrated
with the orbital dynamics model and atmosphere channel model, a framework is
presented to explore the whole parameters space including orbit height,
elevation angle, apertures of transceiver and atmospheric turbulence intensity
to give the considerations for improving key rates and subsequently provide a
relevant parameter tradeoff for the implementation of space-based MDI-QKD. We
further investigate the heart of MDI-QKD, the two-photon interference
considerations such as the frequency calibration and time synchronization
technology against Doppler shift, and the way of performing the intensity
optimization method in the dynamic and asymmetric channels. Our work can be
used as a pathfinder to support decisions involving as the selection of the
future quantum communication satellite missions.
