Optical Interferometry with Quantum Networks

TL;DR

This paper introduces a quantum network-based optical interferometry method for telescope arrays, enabling high-resolution astronomical imaging with reduced entanglement bandwidth and feasible near-term implementation.

Contribution

It presents a novel quantum-assisted interferometry scheme that improves efficiency and resolution over classical methods, leveraging entanglement and quantum data compression.

Findings

Exponential reduction in entanglement bandwidth required.

Feasible with near-term quantum technology.

Enhanced optical imaging resolution beyond classical limits.

Abstract

We propose a method for optical interferometry in telescope arrays assisted by quantum networks. In our approach, the quantum state of incoming photons along with an arrival time index is stored in a binary qubit code at each receiver. Nonlocal retrieval of the quantum state via entanglement-assisted parity checks at the expected photon arrival rate allows for direct extraction of the phase difference, effectively circumventing transmission losses between nodes. Compared to prior proposals, our scheme (based on efficient quantum data compression) offers an exponential decrease in required entanglement bandwidth. Experimental implementation is then feasible with near-term technology, enabling optical imaging of astronomical objects akin to well-established radio interferometers and pushing resolution beyond what is practically achievable classically.