On the quantum-channel capacity for orbital angular momentum-based free-space optical communications

Area of Science:

• Quantum communication
• Quantum information science
• Optics and photonics

Background:

• Orbital angular momentum (OAM) has emerged as a promising tool for single-photon communications.
• Existing quantum communication protocols face limitations in transmission distance and data rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose novel quantum-channel models for OAM-based quantum communication.
• To enhance quantum key distribution and quantum teleportation using multidimensional OAM states.
• To investigate the impact of atmospheric turbulence on OAM quantum communication channels.

Main Methods:

• Development of two quantum-channel models: a multidimensional quantum-key distribution model and a quantum teleportation model.
• Utilizing operator-sum representation for Kraus operators derived from OAM eigenkets transition probabilities.
• Calculating quantum-channel capacities under simulated atmospheric turbulence conditions.

Main Results:

• The proposed models provide a framework for understanding and improving OAM quantum communication.
• The models enable the calculation of quantum-channel capacities, quantifying performance limitations.
• Insights into the effects of atmospheric turbulence on OAM-based quantum information transfer.

Conclusions:

• The developed quantum-channel models are crucial for advancing quantum-error correction schemes in OAM quantum communications.
• These models pave the way for extending transmission distances and increasing data rates in OAM quantum networks.
• The research contributes to the practical implementation of robust quantum communication systems in challenging environments.