Quantum Key Distribution with Rydberg atoms

Quantum Communications (QC) harness the properties of atoms and photons to distribute information to remote users and create distant quantum correlations, thereby propelling us towards a future quantum internet. Yet, this grand vision faces a formidable challenge in the form of limited distance.

To further extend the transmission range of QC, it is necessary to build a Quantum Repeater (QR) using quantum memories and operations that involve both photons and matter qubits.

This research aims to investigate physical systems that can act as quantum memories for photons in the C band with the goal of demonstrating a proof-of-concept QR. The systems of choice will be Rb atoms, either cold in a magneto optical trap or at room temperature in a vapour cell. The results will shed light on the maximum distance achievable by QC.