Programmable non-Gaussian quantum light source with state and temporal-waveform tunability

TL;DR

This paper introduces a programmable quantum light source capable of independently tuning the quantum state and temporal waveform, enabling versatile photonic quantum applications with high-quality non-Gaussian states.

Contribution

It presents a novel heralding-based platform that allows independent and arbitrary control over quantum state and waveform without optical losses.

Findings

Successfully generated single-photon, Schrödinger cat, and two-photon states

Achieved diverse temporal waveforms without degrading state quality

Demonstrated the platform's versatility for quantum applications

Abstract

A versatile quantum light source capable of programmably generating a variety of quantum light is a key enabler for photonic quantum technologies. In particular, independent control over both the output quantum state and its temporal waveform is essential for realizing diverse functionalities and enhancing processing performance. However, conventional sources of optical non-Gaussian states, a crucial resource for photonic quantum information processing, typically emit fixed states with predetermined temporal waveforms, lacking their programmability. Here, we propose a programmable non-Gaussian quantum light source that offers independent and arbitrary tunability of both the quantum state and the temporal waveform within a single platform. As a distinctive feature, our approach employs a heralding scheme in which these two properties are indirectly engineered to user-defined targets by manipulating the light in the heralding channel, thereby avoiding optical losses associated with direct manipulation of the heralded quantum light. We develop a prototype and demonstrate the generation of single-photon, Schr\"odinger cat, and two-photon states in a variety of unconventional temporal waveforms without degradation in state quality. This platform provides a versatile tool for tailoring quantum light to specific applications, significantly expanding the capabilities of photonic quantum technologies.