Events

Abstract:

The Quantum illumination (QI) protocol presents a promising method for increasing the performance of long-range quantum radar and short-range quantum microwave microscopy techniques through establishing quantum correlations between the signal photons and a retained idler field [1]. While recent data has shown that QI offers a substantial improvement to the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the detection of the reflected signals [2], significant experimental challenges remain in developing a deployable device that can store the idler field with minimal losses [3]. In the Geonium Chip group, we are developing a novel Penning trap geometry to enable the quantum states of a trapped electron motion to be used as the signal and idler modes in a deployable QI device [4].

This Penning trap employs planar electric and magnetic field sources to significantly reduce the size and weight of the trap [5], while also allowing for greater tunability of the central frequency and bandwidth of the transmitted signal. Recent development of a planar carbon nanotube electron source now also enables on-chip integration of the loading system, as well as providing in-situ diagnostics of the electric and magnetic fields.   

1. S.H. Tan et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 101.25, 253601 (2008).

2. R. Assouly et al., Nat. Phys. 19.10, 1418-1422 (2023).

3. A. Karsa et al., Rep. Prog. Phys. 87.9, 094001 (2024).

4. J.Verdu et al., UK Patent 2606360, 09 Nov. 2022.

5. J. Pinder et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 91.10, 103201 (2020).

Back to event list

Posted on behalf of: Sussex Centre for Quantum Technologies
Further information: Previous talks can be found at https://www.sussex.ac.uk/research/centres/sussex-centre-for-quantum-technologies/showcase/talks
Last updated: Wednesday, 11 November 2026