Entanglement-assisted non-local optical interferometry in a quantum network

Nature

by P.-J. Stas

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Revolutionizing optical interferometry, researchers have successfully demonstrated a new approach using quantum entanglement to enhance non-local optical measurements. By leveraging entangled quantum memories in a quantum network of silicon–vacancy (SiV) centers within diamond nanocavities, they achieved a proof-of-concept experiment that significantly improves the sensitivity of weak light detection across spatially separated stations. This breakthrough overcomes traditional limitations posed by photon loss and quantum noise, paving the way for advanced optical imaging methods with applications in astronomy, microscopy, and long-baseline interferometry. The study highlights the use of event-ready remote entanglement, where entangled qubits are shared between stations to enable non-local phase measurements. By erasing photon mode information and utilizing non-destructive photon heralding, the researchers successfully performed differential phase measurements with a fibre link baseline of up to 1.55 km. This approach not only reduces the need for vast numbers of entangled pairs but also provides a practical pathway for scaling quantum-enhanced sensing in real-world scenarios. This advancement matters because it addresses critical challenges in high-resolution imaging, such as those faced by long-baseline telescope arrays and microscopy systems. By harnessing quantum networks, scientists can potentially achieve unprecedented resolution and sensitivity, enabling new discoveries in astrophysics, material science, and biological imaging. The research also underscores the growing importance of quantum networking in modern optics, offering a promising route toward overcoming fundamental physical limitations in optical sensing and communication.

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Originally published on Nature on 2/26/2026