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Photonic quantum state transfer between a cold atomic gas and a crystal
Nicolas Maring1, Pau Farrera1, Kutlu Kutluer1
1ICFO-Institut de Ciencies Fotoniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860 Castelldefels (Barcelona), Spain.
Nature
|November 24, 2017
Summary
Researchers achieved optical quantum interconnection between a cold atomic ensemble and a rare-earth-doped crystal. This breakthrough enables faithful quantum state transfer for future hybrid quantum networks.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Information Science
- Quantum Networking
- Optics and Photonics
Background:
- Hybrid quantum networks merge diverse quantum systems for enhanced capabilities.
- Optical interconnections face challenges in photon wavelength and bandwidth matching.
- Connecting disparate quantum nodes is crucial for scalable quantum technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate optical quantum interconnection between two distinct matter quantum systems.
- To overcome challenges in interfacing quantum systems with photon storage.
- To advance the development of heterogeneous quantum networks.
Main Methods:
- Utilized cascaded quantum frequency conversion for photon interfacing.
- Employed a single photon at a 1,552 nm telecommunication wavelength.
- Transferred quantum states between a cold atomic ensemble and a rare-earth-doped crystal.
Main Results:
- Achieved faithful quantum state transfer between the atomic and solid-state systems.
- Demonstrated transfer of quantum correlations from photons to collective spin excitations.
- Showcased conversion, storage, and retrieval of single-photon time-bin qubits with >85% fidelity.
Conclusions:
- Successfully established optical quantum interconnection of disparate quantum systems.
- Paved the way for optically connecting quantum nodes with varied functionalities.
- Represented a significant advancement towards realizing large-scale hybrid quantum networks.
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