Efficient and Compact Quantum Network Node Based on a Parabolic Mirror on an Optical Chip
Abstract
We demonstrate a neutral atom networking node that combines high photon collection efficiency with high atom-photon entanglement fidelity in a compact, fiber-integrated platform. A parabolic mirror is used both to form the trap and to collect fluorescence from a single rubidium atom, intrinsically mode-matching σ polarized emitted photons to the fiber and rendering the system largely insensitive to small imperfections or drifts. The core optics consist of millimeter-scale components that are pre-aligned, rigidly bonded on a monolithic in-vacuum assembly, and interfaced entirely via optical fibers. With this design, we measure an overall photon collection and detection efficiency of 5%, from which we infer an overall collection efficiency of 9% after the single-mode fiber coupling. We generate atom-photon entangled states with a raw Bell-state fidelity of 0.93 and an inferred fidelity of 0.98 after correcting for atom readout errors. The same node design has been realized in two independent setups with comparable performance and is compatible with adding high-NA objective lenses to create and control atomic arrays at each node. Our results establish a robust, cavity-free neutral atom interface that operates near the limit set by the collection optics numerical aperture and provides a practical building block for scalable quantum network nodes and repeaters.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Neural Networks and Reservoir Computing
Quantum optics and atomic interactions
Quantum Information and Cryptography
Publication details
- Journal / source
- PRX Quantum
- Publisher
- American Physical Society (APS)
- Volume
- 7
- Issue
- 3
- Publication date
- 9 June 2026
- Language
- EN