Researchers Develop Another Breakthrough in Quantum Memory Storage

Posted 06/28/2010 at 8:52am | by Paul Lilly

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A team of researchers from down under have come up with what they claim is the most efficient quantum memory for light in the world. The team, located at the ANU Research School of Physics and Engineering in Australia, developed a technique that allows them to stop and control light from a laser, making it possible to manipulate electrons in a crystal that's been cooled to -200C.

"Light entering the crystal is slowed all the way to a stop, where it remains until we let it go again," explains lead researcher Morgan Hedges. "When we do let it go, we get out essentially everything that went in as a three-dimensional hologram, accurate right down to the last photon.

"Because of the inherent uncertainty in quantum mechanics, some of the information in this light will be lost the moment it is measured, making it a read-once hologram. Quantum mechanics guarantees this information can only be read once, making it perfect for secure communication."

According to the research team, the same efficient and accurate qualities places their memory as a front runner for quantum computing, long considered the holy grail of computers. Light storage could also make it possible to test fundamental physics, the team says.

Image Credit: ANU