Memory assisted free space quantum communication.
POSTER
Abstract
A quantum memory assisted node between different quantum channels has the capability to modify and synchronize its output, allowing for easy connectivity, and advanced cryptography protocols. We present the experimental progress towards the storage of single photon level pulses carrying random polarization qubits into a dual rail room temperature quantum memory (RTQM) after $\sim $ 20m of free space propagation. The RTQM coherently stores the input pulses through electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) of a warm $^{\mathrm{87}}$Rb vapor and filters the output by polarization elements and temperature-controlled etalon resonators. This allows the characterization of error rates for each polarization basis and the testing of the synchronization ability of the quantum memory. This work presents a steppingstone towards quantum key distribution and quantum repeater networks.
*The work was supported by the US-Navy Office of Naval Research, grant number N00141410801 and the Simons Foundation, grant number SBF241180.B. J. acknowledges financial assistance of the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa.