Telecom-compatible polarization-to-time-bin conversion of atom-photon entanglement for heterogeneous quantum networks

Abstract:A key enabling feature of future quantum networks is interoperability between platforms that operate at different wavelengths and with different qubit encodings. We demonstrate an interface that converts atom-photon entanglement from polarization encoding at an atomic wavelength to time-bin encoding in the telecom C-band. Atom-entangled photons at 854 nm are generated from a single $^{40}$Ca$^+$ ion. After quantum frequency conversion to 1550 nm, the photonic polarization qubit is converted into a time-bin qubit using a fiber-based Mach--Zehnder-like encoder. Full quantum tomography of the final state verifies that the process preserves entanglement with 96.3(4.2)% fidelity. Together with the independent work of Ferrari et al. [arXiv:2607.07805 (2026)], this is the first demonstration of polarization-to-time-bin conversion of photons entangled with a single atomic quantum memory. The telecom-compatible interface enables robust qubit transmission over optical fibers and provides a key building block for heterogeneous quantum networking architectures.

arXiv:2607.29609 [quant-ph]

(or arXiv:2607.29609v1 [quant-ph] for this version)

https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2607.29609 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite (pending registration)

arXivLabs is a framework that allows collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on our website.

Both individuals and organizations that work with arXivLabs have embraced and accepted our values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only works with partners that adhere to them.

Have an idea for a project that will add value for arXiv's community? Learn more about arXivLabs.