Scientists have carried out the transmission of information encoded in particles of light, using quantum teleportation at a distance of 30 kilometers. The results of the experiment are presented in two articles published in the journal Nature Photonics.
Quantum teleportation over fiber optic networks can dramatically improve the security and reliability of Internet connections. However, when transmitting information over long distances, independent light sources are required. The problem is that a light beam from one source, after passing several kilometers, should remain indistinguishable from a light beam from another source.
To address this issue, the two research teams independently developed feedback and synchronization mechanisms for light signals specifically for their quantum teleportation experiments. In one case, light was used with a wavelength characteristic of telecommunications. This made it possible to minimize the speed at which the photon signal loses its intensity during its passage through the optical fiber. Another research group additionally used a light beam with a wavelength of 795 nanometers.
The results of the experiment showed that quantum teleportation over long distances is technically possible. Scientists hope that their work will lead to the development of new technologies that will improve the efficiency of transmission of information encoded in elementary particles.
