Scientists achieve 'impossible task' of controlling light in quantum computing

Scientists achieve 'impossible task' of controlling light in quantum computing
28 Sep 2024

A team of researchers at the University of Waterloo, Canada has cracked a way to control laser light used in manipulating qubits, which are the building blocks of quantum info.

This is a big deal because it tackles one of the toughest problems in quantum science: keeping qubits safe during their reset, measurement, or deletion.

They also managed to measure and reset a trapped ion qubit without messing with the ones nearby.

The challenge of preserving qubits
Qubit preservation

Keeping qubits safe is a big hurdle in quantum science. Just one change to a single qubit can affect its neighbors and cause data loss.

The current ways of shielding these quantum bits have their downsides; they often need extra resources or steps that can add new errors and bring down efficiency.

The solution: Controlling laser light
Innovative approach

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have found a way to tackle this issue.

They've brought together two technologies—ion trap qubits and beam holographic shaping—to manage laser light in a way that it doesn't mess with other qubits when one's at work.

This method keeps the light laser-focused on its target and prevents it from spilling over to other qubits, keeping them safe and sound.

The experiment was a success
Experimental triumph

The team's experiment was a big win. They successfully controlled and contained scattered photons, ensuring that neighboring qubits stayed safe from any disturbance or damage.

This is a massive achievement, as it was previously believed to be nearly impossible to measure a single qubit without impacting the qubits in the surrounding.