In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers at Leibniz University Hannover have developed a technique to transmit entangled photons through optical fibers, potentially merging the quantum internet with the classical internet. This innovation promises to enhance security and efficiently utilize existing infrastructure, marking a significant step forward in telecommunications technology.
The Quantum Leap in Internet Technology
A four-member research team from the Institute of Photonic Sciences at Leibniz University Hannover has created an innovative发射接收 (transmitter-receiver) system designed to send entangled photons through optical fibers. This development could pave the way for the next generation of telecommunication technology—quantum internet.
The quantum internet is poised to offer encryption methods that are impervious to eavesdropping, even from future quantum computers. This ensures the security of critical infrastructure, a concern that grows with the increasing sophistication of cyber threats.
The Experimental Breakthrough
In their experiments, the researchers demonstrated the ability to change the color of laser pulses using high-speed electrical signals, matching them to the color of entangled photons. This effect allowed them to combine laser pulses and entangled photons of the same color into the fiber and then separate them after transmission.
We need to transmit entangled photons through fiber optic networks to realize the quantum internet, said Professor Michael Kues, the head of the Institute of Photonic Sciences and a member of the PhoenixD elite cluster board. At the same time, we want to continue using the fibers for classical data transmission. Our research represents an important step towards combining the traditional internet with the quantum internet.
Maintaining Entanglement
The researchers were able to prove that even when photons are sent together with laser pulses, their entanglement remains intact. Philip Rübeling, a doctoral candidate in quantum internet research at the Institute of Photonic Sciences, explained, We can change the color of laser pulses with high-speed electrical signals to match the color of entangled photons. This allows us to combine and then separate laser pulses and entangled photons of the same color in the fiber.
The four researchers in the quantum optics laboratory are Jan Heine, Philip Rübeling, Michael Kues, and Robert Johanning (from left to right). Image credit: Institute of Photonic Sciences
Overcoming Challenges
Until now, it has been impossible to use two different color transmission methods simultaneously in a single fiber. Jan Heine, a doctoral candidate in Kues’ research group, explained, Entangled photons blocked the data channels in the fiber, making them unavailable for classical data transmission.
The concept demonstrated for the first time in their experiment now allows photons to be sent in the same color channel as the laser. This means all color channels remain available for classical data transmission. Professor Michael Kues said, Our experiment shows how the practical application of a hybrid network can be successful.
Implications for the Future
The successful integration of entangled photons into classical fiber optic networks marks a significant advancement in the field of quantum communication. This research not only paves the way for more secure communication channels but also demonstrates the potential for existing infrastructure to be repurposed for quantum applications, reducing the need for extensive overhauls.
As cyber threats evolve, the development of quantum-resistant encryption methods becomes increasingly crucial. The work of the Leibniz University Hannover research team represents a pivotal moment in the quest to secure global communication networks.
The future of the internet is rapidly evolving, and with this breakthrough, the quantum internet is one step closer to becoming a reality. The implications for global security, privacy, and the way we conduct business and research are profound and exciting.
编译自/ScitechDaily
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