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Updated: Jan 2, 2026
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A Photonic System for Generating Unconditional Polarization-Entangled Photons Based on Multiple Quantum Interference
Published on: September 5, 2019
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Quantum Interference between Photons from an Atomic Ensemble and a Remote Atomic Ion.
A N Craddock1, J Hannegan1, D P Ornelas-Huerta1
1Joint Quantum Institute, National Institute of Standards and Technology and the University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, USA.
Physical Review Letters
|December 7, 2019
Summary
Researchers achieved quantum interference between photons from a single ion and an atomic ensemble. This demonstrates a key step towards hybrid quantum networks and remote entanglement generation.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Information Science
- Quantum Networking
- Atomic Physics
Background:
- Remote-entanglement protocols are crucial for quantum networks.
- Heterogeneous quantum networks leverage diverse quantum systems.
- Photon spectral and temporal mismatches hinder network implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate quantum interference between photons from distinct quantum systems (single ion and atomic ensemble).
- To assess the feasibility of hybrid ion-ensemble remote entanglement generation.
- To advance the development of practical quantum networks.
Main Methods:
- Generating photons on demand from a single ion source.
- Generating photons on demand from an atomic ensemble source.
- Observing quantum interference between photons from these separate, heterogeneous sources.
Main Results:
- Successful observation of quantum interference between photons from a single ion and an atomic ensemble.
- Demonstrated on-demand photon generation from sources in separate buildings.
- Established a foundational capability for hybrid quantum networking.
Conclusions:
- Hybrid quantum networks integrating single ions and atomic ensembles are feasible.
- The demonstrated interference is a critical step for remote entanglement generation.
- This work paves the way for scalable and versatile quantum network architectures.
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