Three-dimensional single-pixel imaging using a fractal superconducting nanowire single-photon detector

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Engineering
• Quantum Technologies
• Advanced Imaging Systems

Background:

• Faint-light imaging is crucial for fluorescence-lifetime microscopy and remote sensing.
• Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) offer superior performance but large-format imagers are challenging.
• Existing imaging technologies face limitations in sensitivity and pixel count for faint-light scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an alternative approach for high-resolution faint-light imaging.
• To demonstrate a novel single-pixel imaging system using a fractal SNSPD.
• To achieve 3D imaging capabilities with enhanced sensitivity and resolution.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a multimode-fiber-coupled fractal SNSPD as the light-sensing element.
• Performed three-dimensional single-pixel imaging at a 1560 nm wavelength.
• Implemented a compressive-sensing scheme for image reconstruction.

Main Results:

• Achieved a depth resolution of less than 6 mm.
• Demonstrated an initial image resolution of 64 × 64 pixels.
• Reconstructed images with a resolution of 128 × 128 pixels using compressive sensing.
• Attained image reconstruction with fewer than 1 photon count per pixel.

Conclusions:

• The proposed single-pixel imaging system offers a viable alternative to large-format SNSPD imagers.
• This technology enables high-resolution 3D faint-light imaging with exceptional photon efficiency.
• The system holds promise for advancing applications requiring sensitive and detailed light detection.