Drone based superconducting single photon detection system with detection efficiency more than 90%

TL;DR

This paper presents the development of a drone-mounted superconducting single photon detector system achieving over 90% detection efficiency, enabling high-performance quantum sensing in complex environments.

Contribution

It introduces the first drone-based SSPD system with high detection efficiency, integrating miniature cryogenics and electric setups for operation in challenging terrains.

Findings

Achieved 91.8% detection efficiency in drone-based SSPD

Demonstrated operation in complex topographical conditions

Integrated miniature cryogenic and electric systems

Abstract

Bounded by the size, weight, and power consumption (SWaP) of conventional superconducting single photon detectors (SSPD), applications of SSPDs were commonly confined in the laboratory. However, booming demands for high efficiency single photon detector incorporated with avionic platforms arise with the development of remote imaging and sensing or long-haul quantum communication without topographical constraints. We herein designed and manufactured the first drone based SSPD system with a SDE as high as 91.8%. This drone based SSPD system is established with high performance NbTiN SSPDs, self-developed miniature liquid helium dewar, and homemade integrated electric setups, which is able to be launched in complex topographical conditions. Such a drone based SSPD system may open the use of SSPDs for applications that demand high-SDE in complex environments.