Speaker
Description
A quantum memory using the extremely long-lived coherence time of the rare-earths, offers a unique way to overcome the photon loss of traditional transmission methods [1]. By storing large numbers of photonic modes, transporting the memory to the destination, and reading out the states with high efficiency, such a quantum hard-drive has applications in quantum communication and fundamental science.
There are many challenges to be overcome to implement a useful quantum hard-drive. We explore one limitation: the effect that stress, arising from vibration or acceleration, will have when the memory is moved. In this talk we discuss measurements of the piezo-spectroscopic stress tensor of $\textrm{Er}^{3+}:\textrm{Y}_{2}\textrm{SiO}_{5}$.
We use a method similar to that described by Seidlin et. al. [2,3], whereby a narrow spectral feature is prepared using optical pumping and its shift is observed as a function of weight resting on the sample. This method allows both high frequency resolution as well as a well calibrated source of strain on the sample. We will discuss the modifications to [2,3] that allow operation at <1 K in a closed cycle cryostat. Shifts of 35 ± 2 kHz/kPa have been observed, being relatively low compared to other rare-earths. This small response indicates Er:YSO is a suitable material for future quantum hard-drive implementations.
[1] J. Bland-Hawthorn, et al., “Quantum memories and the double-slit experiment: implications for astronomical interferometry,” J. Opt. Soc. Am. B, 38, 7, 2021.
[2] S. Zhang, et al., “Inhomogeneous response of an ion ensemble from mechanical stress,” Phys. Rev. Research, 2, 1, 013306, 2020.
[3] N. Galland, et al., “Mechanical Tunability of an Ultranarrow Spectral Feature of a Rare-Earth-Doped Crystal via Uniaxial Stress,” Phys. Rev. Applied, 13, 4, 044022, 2020.
| I am the presenting author | Yes |
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