Simultaneously sorting overlapping quantum states of light
Abstract
The efficient manipulation, sorting, and measurement of optical modes and single-photon states is fundamental to classical and quantum science. Here, we realise simultaneous and efficient sorting of non-orthogonal, overlapping states of light, encoded in the transverse spatial degree of freedom. We use a specifically designed multi-plane light converter (MPLC) to sort states encoded in dimensions ranging from to . Through the use of an auxiliary output mode, the MPLC simultaneously performs the unitary operation required for unambiguous discrimination and the basis change for the outcomes to be spatially separated. Our results lay the groundwork for optimal image identification and classification via optical networks, with potential applications ranging from self-driving cars to quantum communication systems.
Cite
@article{arxiv.2207.03986,
title = {Simultaneously sorting overlapping quantum states of light},
author = {Suraj Goel and Max Tyler and Feng Zhu and Saroch Leedumrongwatthanakun and Mehul Malik and Jonathan Leach},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2207.03986},
year = {2023}
}