Quantum 2025 – scientific programme
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THU: Thursday Contributed Sessions
THU 13: Poster Session: Applications
THU 13.73: Poster
Thursday, September 11, 2025, 16:30–18:30, ZHG Foyer 1. OG
A Quantum Telescope: Quantum memory assisted optical-interferometric astronomy — •Rikhav Shah1, Donika Imeri1,2, Elaheh Bakhshaei Ghoroghaghaei1, and Ralf Riedinger1,2 — 1Universität Hamburg — 2Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging (CUI)
High-resolution astronomical imaging with radio frequency and microwave interferometry has been well established, with resolutions of O(100) µas. Extending this intricate methodology to the optical and near-infrared regimes offers the potential for enhanced resolution, enabling deeper surveys of exoplanets and galaxy disks. This transition, introduces considerable experimental challenges, notably the delay line compensation between telescopes, which constrains classical interferometry. However, this can be subverted by employing a long-lived quantum memory state. This novel quantum-assisted boost to interferometry describes a new paradigm for astronomical imaging, helping realize unparalleled resolutions. Such a quantum memory state and testbed telescope scheme, employing Silicon Vacancy defects in diamond (SiVs), is discussed here. These are optically active point like defects which show strong photon coupling and long coherence times O(100) µs in cryogenic environments. The promising utility of SiVs for optical telescopes, and the experimental setup being built to operate the SiVs is described.
Keywords: Quantum memories; Silicon Vacancy in Diamond; Quantum sensors; Optical Telescopes; Interferometry