- Experimental setup used in the analysis of quantum mechanical entanglement of four individual quantum bits (q1 to q4)
Superconducting beam detectors are able to resolve photonic signals so extensively that only unavoidable noise caused by the photon statistics of the signal to be measured limits the sensitivity.
This development is based on the theoretical research done on macroscopic quantum phenomena in solid state materials. As a result of this research, it was possible to demonstrate the superposition and entanglement of quantum states in superconducting rings, for example, and to subsequently manipulate them with a conventional interface. Insight gained into the behavior of such systems will influence current and future sensor generations.
- Sensor chip with 37 receivers for a beam with a wavelength of 350 µm
The use of superconducting sensors is currently concentrated in the terahertz (THz = 1012Hz) spectrum. In radio astronomy this spectrum is used in the earthbound monitoring of stellar nurseries and faraway galaxies. Together with the Max Planck Institute of Radio Astronomy in Bonn, bolometer cameras are being developed, the latest expansion stage of which (i.e., SABOCA) was approved in the spring of 2009 as a monitoring instrument for the APEX telescope located at the European observatory in the southern hemisphere in Chile.
- Stellar nursery NGC 6334, mapped by the SABOCA bolometer camera at the APEX radio telescope
- Terahertz image of a test subject with a hidden mock weapon; the image was captured in 3 seconds at a distance of 5 meters
Technically closely related systems may also be used in security cameras. Terahertz technology makes it possible to detect hidden objects on a person without violating one’s privacy. Together with partners from Thuringia (Jena-Optronik GmbH, Supracon AG), this technology is being developed in video cameras. Applications include airport security and security in military camps.
- Prototype of a passive terahertz security camera
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