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A compact multi-pixel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector array supporting gigabit space-to-ground
Hao Hao1, Qing-Yuan Zhao2,3, Yang-Hui Huang1
1Research Institute of Superconductor Electronics (RISE), School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China.
Light, Science & Applications
|January 22, 2024
Summary
We developed a superconducting nanowire single-photon detector array for space communications. This device achieves high data rates and noise tolerance, enabling deep space exploration and daylight operation.
Area of Science:
- Quantum communication
- Photon detection
- Optical engineering
Background:
- Space-to-ground communication requires sensitive receivers for long-distance data transmission.
- Existing systems face challenges with high data rates, background noise, and beam drift in free-space channels.
- Advanced photon detectors are crucial for overcoming these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel multi-pixel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector array.
- To demonstrate its capabilities in high-speed, low-noise space communication.
- To validate its potential for deep space and daylight communication scenarios.
Main Methods:
- Designed and fabricated a compact multi-pixel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector array.
- Integrated near-unity detection efficiency, high photon counting rate, large dynamic range, and position sensing.
- Constructed a communication testbed for pulse position modulation (PPM) experiments and beam tracking.
Main Results:
- Achieved 91.6% detection efficiency and 1.61 Giga counts per second (Gcps) photon counting rate.
- Demonstrated a maximum data rate of 1.5 Gbps using 8-PPM format.
- Showcased noise tolerance of 0.8 photons/slot at 120 Mbps by incorporating photon number information.
Conclusions:
- The developed detector array significantly enhances space-to-ground communication capabilities.
- Its high performance and noise mitigation strategies are suitable for deep space missions and daylight operation.
- The device architecture and signal processing techniques show promise for future space communication systems.
