Toward quantum processing in molecules: A THz-bandwidth coherent memory for light

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a THz-bandwidth molecular quantum memory using hydrogen molecules to store ultrafast light pulses, highlighting molecules' potential for ultrafast quantum photonic applications.

Contribution

It introduces a novel molecular-based quantum memory capable of storing 100-fs pulses for up to 1 ns, expanding the toolkit for quantum information processing.

Findings

Successfully stored 100-fs pulses in hydrogen molecules

Achieved storage durations up to 1 nanosecond

Enabled 10,000 operational time bins for ultrafast quantum memory

Abstract

The unusual features of quantum mechanics are enabling the development of technologies not possible with classical physics. These devices utilize nonclassical phenomena in the states of atoms, ions, and solid-state media as the basis for many prototypes. Here we investigate molecular states as a distinct alternative. We demonstrate a memory for light based on storing photons in the vibrations of hydrogen molecules. The THz-bandwidth molecular memory is used to store 100-fs pulses for durations up to 1ns, enabling 10,000 operational time bins. The results demonstrate the promise of molecules for constructing compact ultrafast quantum photonic technologies.