Researchers were able to run a key quantum internet element for half a month
Qunnect demonstrated a quantum internet test under NYC for 15 days, maintaining entangled photon data transmission over 34 km with 99.8% uptime.
Qunnect, a New York-based company, has made notable strides in quantum internet technology. They conducted an underground test of quantum entanglement over 15 days, demonstrating the feasibility of using entangled photons to transmit data reliably under traditional infrastructures. Utilizing proprietary polarization compensation devices, Qunnect managed to transmit a 1324 nm photon and maintain its entanglement with a 795 nm photon through a 34 km optical fiber under New York City. The experiment achieved a notable 99.8% uptime and operated autonomously throughout its duration.
This groundbreaking experiment indicates that quantum entanglement can be harnessed using existing telecom technologies to develop scalable quantum internet solutions. By generating polarization-entangled pairs of photons using spontaneous four-wave mixing in a warm rubidium vapor, Qunnect's system overcame significant challenges associated with maintaining entanglement over long distances through optical fibers.
Qunnect's success underlines the practicality of integrating quantum applications within current telecommunication networks, paving the way for advances in quantum computing, sensing, and communication technologies. Their next step involves leveraging this breakthrough to further develop quantum-focused devices and infrastructure.