Overcoming inefficient detection in sub-shot-noise absorption measurement and imaging

Area of Science:

• Quantum optics
• Optical sensing and imaging

Background:

• Photon-number squeezing and correlations allow measurements surpassing the standard quantum limit (shot-noise limit).
• Achieving sub-shot-noise imaging and sensing typically demands high detector efficiency.
• Difficult spectral ranges often present challenges due to low detector efficiency, hindering these advanced measurement techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a method for achieving sub-shot-noise imaging that is robust against detection losses.
• To overcome the limitations imposed by low detector efficiency in challenging spectral regions for quantum-enhanced measurements.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing phase-sensitive amplification prior to photon detection.
• Developing an experimental scheme for sub-shot-noise imaging incorporating loss tolerance.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of a theoretical framework for loss-tolerant sub-shot-noise imaging.
• Identification of phase-sensitive amplification as a key technique to mitigate detection efficiency issues.

Conclusions:

• Phase-sensitive amplification offers a viable solution to enable sub-shot-noise imaging in the presence of significant detection losses.
• The proposed scheme expands the applicability of quantum-enhanced imaging techniques to a wider range of spectral conditions.