Ytterbium Atoms Encode Quantum Data Using Two Independent States

Scientists at the University of Michigan, led by Chun-Wei Liu, have unveiled a new qubit encoding architecture for neutral-atom arrays utilising 171Yb atoms. The architecture employs a dual metastable-state approach, leveraging both nuclear-spin and hyperfine-spin qubits within distinct energy manifolds to enhance quantum information processing. This innovative design enables extended coherence times suitable for both quantum storage and arithmetic operations. It also facilitates swift Raman operations and direct, state-selective imaging facilitated by a hyperfine frequency of $2π\times 6.7~\mathrm{GHz}$. By seamlessly integrating mid-circuit measurements and rapid qubit operations on a single platform, the research presents a versatile framework with the potential to…