Telecom-Band Quantum Optics with Ytterbium Atoms and Silicon Nanophotonics

Jacob P. Covey, Alp Sipahigil, Szilárd Szőke, Neil Sinclair, Manuel Endres, Oskar Painter

Abstract

Wavelengths in the telecommunication window (ca.1.25--1.65 $\ensuremath{\mu}$m) are ideal for quantum communication, due to the low transmission loss in optical-fiber networks. To realize quantum networks operating at these wavelengths, we need long-lived quantum memories that couple efficiently to telecom-band photons. This study proposes using optical tweezers to couple neutral ytterbium atoms, which have a strong telecom-wavelength transition, to a silicon photonic-crystal cavity. The combination of high system efficiency, telecom-band operation, and long coherence times makes this platform well suited for quantum optics on a silicon chip and long-distance quantum communication.

Locations

• Physical Review Applied - View
• arXiv (Cornell University) - View - PDF
• CaltechAUTHORS (California Institute of Technology) - View - PDF
• DataCite API - View