Quantum interference between two single photons emitted by independently trapped atoms.

Area of Science:

• Quantum Optics
• Atomic Physics
• Quantum Information Science

Background:

• Quantum interference is a fundamental phenomenon where indistinguishable particles exhibit wave-like behavior.
• The Hong-Ou-Mandel effect, demonstrating photon coalescence at a beam splitter, is crucial for quantum information processing.
• Scalable quantum computing requires multiple synchronized, independent sources of indistinguishable single photons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate quantum interference between single photons emitted by two independently trapped single atoms.
• To assess the feasibility of using independent atomic emitters for scalable quantum information applications.
• To identify limitations in achieving high-fidelity quantum interference with independent atomic sources.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing two independently trapped single atoms as single-photon sources.
• Directing single photons from each atom into the input ports of a beam splitter.
• Analyzing the output statistics to confirm photon coalescence and quantum interference.

Main Results:

• Observed quantum interference, with photons from independent atomic sources coalescing at the beam splitter.
• Identified wavefront matching as the primary limitation for interference fidelity.
• Determined atomic motion within traps as a secondary factor affecting interference.

Conclusions:

• Successfully demonstrated quantum interference between single photons from two independent atomic emitters.
• This work represents a significant advancement towards scalable quantum information processing using multiple synchronized single-photon sources.
• Future efforts should focus on improving wavefront matching and reducing atomic motion to enhance interference fidelity.