Imaging Stars with Quantum Error Correction

Zixin Huang, Gavin K. Brennen, and Yingkai Ouyang
Phys. Rev. Lett. 129, 210502 – Published 16 November 2022
PDFHTMLExport Citation

Abstract

The development of high-resolution, large-baseline optical interferometers would revolutionize astronomical imaging. However, classical techniques are hindered by physical limitations including loss, noise, and the fact that the received light is generally quantum in nature. We show how to overcome these issues using quantum communication techniques. We present a general framework for using quantum error correction codes for protecting and imaging starlight received at distant telescope sites. In our scheme, the quantum state of light is coherently captured into a nonradiative atomic state via stimulated Raman adiabatic passage, which is then imprinted into a quantum error correction code. The code protects the signal during subsequent potentially noisy operations necessary to extract the image parameters. We show that even a small quantum error correction code can offer significant protection against noise. For large codes, we find noise thresholds below which the information can be preserved. Our scheme represents an application for near-term quantum devices that can increase imaging resolution beyond what is feasible using classical techniques.

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 6 May 2022
  • Accepted 21 October 2022

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.129.210502

© 2022 American Physical Society

Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

Quantum Information, Science & TechnologyAtomic, Molecular & Optical

Authors & Affiliations

Zixin Huang1,*, Gavin K. Brennen1,†, and Yingkai Ouyang2,3,‡

  • 1Centre for Engineered Quantum Systems, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia
  • 2Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
  • 3Centre of Quantum Technologies, National University of Singapore, Singapore

  • *zixin.huang@mq.edu.au
  • gavin.brennen@mq.edu.au
  • oyingkai@gmail.com

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

Supplemental Material (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 129, Iss. 21 — 18 November 2022

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options
Author publication services for translation and copyediting assistance advertisement

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review Letters

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×