Stuttgart team teleports quantum state between separate photonsThis breakthrough enables quantum information to travel long distances through repeaters made of ‘quantum dots’ without loss or interference.
Unlike standard internet signals, which can be amplified along the way, quantum information requires photons that are nearly identical. Quantum dots—special semiconductors that emit light at extremely precise frequencies—can produce such indistinguishable photons, making them ideal for reliable long-distance quantum communication.
Quantum Data Teleported Between Photons
Researchers teleport quantum information between photons from separate quantum dots
“For the first time anywhere, we have transferred quantum information between photons from two separate quantum dots,” says physicist Peter Michler of the University of Stuttgart.
Although physicists call these experiments “teleportation,” what is actually being transferred is a quantum state—no photons disappear from one location and reappear in another.
Maintaining Indistinguishability Is Key for Quantum Teleportation
For a quantum state to move between two photons, the particles must exist in a delicate, indistinguishable quantum form. Using different photon sources can introduce variations that disrupt the process.
Quantum dots help control these variations, making it possible to teleport quantum states between completely separate locations.
The experiments used standard optical fibers, showing a practical path toward a quantum internet.
Quantum Teleportation Across Dots Extends Range
“Transferring quantum information between photons from different quantum dots is a crucial step toward bridging greater distances,” says Michler.
Scientists are exploring how existing infrastructure can support the quantum internet, with its layer crucial for secure, long-distance data. In the current experiment, the optical fiber used was about 10 meters (nearly 33 feet) long.
The team aims to extend the range and boost the teleportation success rate, now over 70%.
“These results highlight the maturity of quantum dot technology and represent a key building block for future quantum communication,” the researchers conclude.
Read the original article on: Science Alert
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