Quantum teleportation and networking
Researchers at Fermilab are using properties of quantum mechanics to enhance quantum networks with the goal of making them reliable, scalable and secure.
Fermilab is a founding member of the Intelligent Quantum Networks and Technologies consortium. INQNET aims to achieve the fidelity and operational robustness required for quantum network applications. This Caltech-led collaboration has achieved sustained, high-fidelity quantum teleportation over fiber optic cables—the same type used by the telecommunication industry today.
Building and advancing quantum communication infrastructure
Fermilab is host to the Fermilab Quantum Network, which features photonics- and fiber-optics-based nodes. FQNET serves as research and development platform where researchers from universities, national laboratories and industry can test and benchmark advanced quantum devices and hybrid architectures.
In addition, Fermilab led the lllinois-Express Quantum Network project, which built on technologies developed by previous projects. IEQNET developed complex network topologies and established a fully dynamic, repeaterless optical quantum network by connecting existing nodes at Fermilab with a node at Argonne National Laboratory and established an initial connection with a node at Northwestern University.
Finally, Fermilab is leading the Department of Energy project, Advanced Quantum Networks for Scientific Discovery, developing tools and practices to optimize a quantum network between Fermilab and Argonne National Laboratory.
Explore the Quantum Networking Lab in the video tour, Inside the Quantum Networking Lab.
Wormhole quantum teleportation
FQNET researchers are also exploring the connection between quantum teleportation and the deep mysteries of space-time physics — black holes and wormholes.
Recent work in theoretical high-energy physics has shown that a pair of entangled black holes can be connected via a wormhole, a theoretical “shortcut” through space-time that connects spaces otherwise separated by great distances. Scientists may be able to reproduce wormhole quantum teleportation for smaller quantum systems in the lab and could offer one avenue for developing a quantum network.
