Scientists have utilized extensive high-performance computing (HPC) to investigate a quantum photonics experiment. This process specifically involved reconstructing experimental data from a quantum detector.
For the first time, researchers at Paderborn University have applied large-scale high-performance computing (HPC) to analyze a quantum photonics experiment, particularly through the tomographic reconstruction of data derived from a quantum detector. This type of detector measures individual photons, which are the fundamental particles of light. The involved researchers created innovative HPC software to enable this analysis. Their results have now been published in the specialized journal Quantum Science and Technology.
Quantum tomography utilizing a massive photonic quantum detector
High-resolution photon detectors are steadily becoming essential tools in quantum research. Accurately characterizing these devices is vital for their effective employment in measurement applications, but this task hasn’t been easy due to the vast amounts of data that require analysis, all while retaining their quantum mechanical properties. Effective tools for processing these extensive datasets are crucial for future uses. Traditional methods fall short in conducting computations on quantum systems beyond a certain scale, while scientists in Paderborn are leveraging high-performance computing for both characterization and certification processes.
“By crafting open-source tailored algorithms with HPC, we can perform quantum tomography on a massive-scale quantum photonic detector,” clarifies physicist Timon Schapeler, who co-authored the study alongside computer scientist Dr. Robert Schade and their colleagues from PhoQS (Institute for Photonic Quantum Systems) and PC2 (Paderborn Center for Parallel Computing). The HPC systems are managed by PC2, an interdisciplinary research initiative at Paderborn University, establishing the university as a leader in Germany’s high-performance computing arena.
‘Unprecedented scale’
“Our discoveries are paving the way for new possibilities in analyzing larger systems within scalable quantum photonics, which could significantly impact areas like the characterization of photonic quantum computer hardware,” Schapeler adds. The team managed to execute calculations for describing a photon detector in just a few minutes, marking a historic speed achievement. The system also efficiently handled extensive data calculations in record time. Schapeler states, “This demonstrates the unprecedented scale at which this tool can apply to quantum photonic systems. To our knowledge, our contribution represents the first instance of traditional high-performance computing being applied to experimental quantum photonics at such a large scale. This area is poised to become increasingly significant for showcasing quantum supremacy in quantum photonics experiments—beyond what can be computed using conventional methods.”
Innovating the future through foundational research
Schapeler is a PhD student in the Mesoscopic Quantum Optics research group led by Professor Tim Bartley. This team focuses on the fundamental physics of quantum light states and their practical applications. These states can involve tens, hundreds, or thousands of photons. “The scale is critical because it highlights the intrinsic advantage that quantum systems have over classical systems. This advantage is evident in numerous fields, including measurement technology, data processing, and communications,” explains Bartley. Quantum research, a major field at Paderborn University, features notable experts conducting foundational studies that will influence future applications.
For further details on quantum research at Paderborn University, visit:
https://www.uni-paderborn.de/en/topic/quantum-research
