This was part of Quantum Networks

The path towards scalable all-optical quantum networks

Krister Shalm, NIST

Thursday, October 3, 2024



Slides
Abstract: Quantum networks are required for distributing quantum states over long distances in order to overcome loss. A high-quality quantum network would enable new classes of secure communications protocols, the linking of remote quantum processors, and distributed entangled sensors. Such a high-quality network does not yet exist. The lack of efficient memories, transduction, and high-rate near-deterministic sources of entangled photons are some of the major obstacles that must be overcome. I'll talk about a new path-entanglement scheme that our team has been developing that we believe will enable truly scalable all-optical quantum networks. Using technologies that exist today, we are aiming to build longer range quantum links capable of distributing high-fidelity and low-loss entanglement over distances of hundreds of kilometers at high rates using multiple heralded repeater steps. We are currently working on our next-generation path-entangled sources, detectors, link-stabilization techniques, and optical memories that will allow us to build a metro-scale prototype quantum network that can be used to carry out quantum communications protocols that have a provable quantum advantage.