SEQUME (2021-2024)

This project will further develop the protocols and instrumentation required for measurements at the single-photon level, including sub-shot noise measurements, quantum imaging, sub-diffraction imaging, and quantum illumination. In addition, novel methods for the fabrication of single-photon sources will be developed and optimized for such things as purity and brightness.

The goal of this project is to establish a metrology infrastructure for the calibration of single-photon sources and detectors. For this, the consortium will develop new single-photon sources and entangled-photon sources for traceable measurements and specify their performance parameters. New validation methods will be produced to optimize sources for highest purity (g⁽²⁾(t = 0) close to 0), brightness (photon rate > 5 × 10⁶ photons per second) and indistinguishability (Hong-Ou-Mandel visibility > 95 %). An infrastructure used in European metrology infrastructure for single-photon measurements will be developed for the traceable characterization of entangled-photon and single-photon sources, amplifiers, and standardized quantum-optical setups.

Within this project, MRI of Aalto University will utilize existing PQED in a cryostat for calibrations of single-photon detectors with photon flux down to 1 million photons per second.

contact person: Farshid Manoocheri

Advancing Quantum Metrology: A Project for the Photon Realm

In the realm of quantum science, the project we embark upon is nothing short of groundbreaking. It's a concerted effort to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of quantum measurements.

This project has a multifaceted approach:

1. Exploring the Quantum Universe: We delve deep into the world of single photons, aiming to develop the protocols and instrumentation necessary for measurements at the single-photon level. This includes cutting-edge techniques like sub-shot noise measurements, quantum imaging, sub-diffraction imaging, and quantum illumination. These techniques have the potential to revolutionize our understanding of quantum phenomena.

2. Crafting Perfect Single-Photon Sources: To truly understand and utilize single photons, we need sources that are not only reliable but also of the highest quality. This project is dedicated to developing and optimizing novel methods for fabricating single-photon sources. Our focus is on achieving purity and brightness, key factors in harnessing the power of single photons.

3. Building a Metrology Infrastructure: The ultimate goal is to establish a robust metrology infrastructure for the calibration of single-photon sources and detectors. This involves developing new sources and entangled-photon sources with traceable measurements and clearly defined performance parameters. We're working on validation methods to maximize source purity, brightness, and indistinguishability, making them truly state-of-the-art.

4. Leveraging Existing Expertise: Metrology Research Institute at Aalto University is a crucial player in this project. We're utilizing our existing PQED (Photon Quantum-Electrodynamics) setup within a cryostat for calibrating single-photon detectors, even when dealing with incredibly low photon flux down to 1 million photons per second.

In essence, this project is all about pushing the boundaries of quantum science, enhancing our ability to understand, manipulate, and measure single photons. It's a journey into the heart of quantum physics, and our destination is a future where quantum technology transforms the way we see and interact with the world.

Contact Person: Farshid Manoocheri