International Year of Quantum Science and Technology: our celebrations begin with a look at quantum networks and sensors
Jan 2, 2025
auto_awesome
In this engaging discussion, Turkish quantum physicist Mete Atatüre, head of the Cavendish Laboratory at the University of Cambridge, delves into the exciting commemorations for the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. He shares insights on the pivotal role of Quantour, the quantum light source, and the innovations in quantum sensors and networks. Atatüre also unpacks the complexities of quantum communication and the journey from theory to practical applications, all while celebrating Heisenberg's groundbreaking contributions to quantum mechanics.
The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology in 2025 aims to enhance global awareness and understanding of quantum advancements and their applications.
Mete Atatüre's research highlights quantum sensors and networks, focusing on their potential to improve communication efficiency and probe biological systems.
Deep dives
International Year of Quantum Science and Technology
2025 is designated as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, marking the centenary of quantum mechanics' development by Werner Heisenberg. This year serves to highlight advancements in quantum science, shifting from perplexity about its paradoxes to a more comprehensive understanding among physicists and engineers. The initiative aims to foster public awareness and engagement in quantum technologies through events such as the Quantour, a small light source touring various quantum labs across Europe. By showcasing quantum optics and its impact on future technologies, the initiative seeks to create a scientific network dedicated to operationalizing quantum advancements.
Promoting Public Understanding of Quantum Technology
A key challenge in promoting quantum science is the difficulty in conveying its principles to a general audience, often described as bizarre or counterintuitive. The focus should shift from the complexities of quantum mechanics to its practical applications and benefits for society, ensuring policymakers and the public recognize its relevance. An effective communication strategy will be essential during the International Year of Quantum to engage young minds and attract new talents to the field. This change in approach aims to foster interest and understanding in quantum technology as a vital part of tackling future challenges.
Research Focus on Quantum Sensors and Networks
Research by Mete Atatürer explores two primary strands: quantum sensing and quantum networks, each with significant potential applications. Quantum sensors leverage unique light-matter interaction at nanoscale levels to better understand physical phenomena and even probe live cells in biological contexts. Meanwhile, the development of quantum networks emphasizes creating small-scale communication systems that enable the distribution of quantum information across multiple nodes. Such advancements not only improve communication efficiency but also integrate seamlessly with existing fiber optic networks, providing a practical pathway for technological implementation.
Challenges in Quantum Communication and Information Storage
Quantum communication faces unique challenges, particularly when transmitting information via single photons, as any loss of a photon results in the loss of information. Unlike classical communication, quantum protocols cannot rely on amplification to maintain signal strength, necessitating the use of quantum nodes to store and relay information. Additionally, developing materials capable of effectively storing quantum information involves balancing isolation to prevent decoherence while ensuring accessibility for interaction. Ongoing research aims to identify suitable materials and systems that reinforce quantum information's stability while adhering to necessary operational conditions.
Our guest in this episode of the Physics World Weekly podcast is the Turkish quantum physicist Mete Atatüre, who heads up the Cavendish Laboratory at the UK’s University of Cambridge.
In a conversation with Physics World’s Katherine Skipper, Atatüre talks about hosting Quantour, the quantum light source that is IYQ’s version of the Olympic torch. He also talks about his group’s research on quantum sensors and quantum networks.