A long-distance quantum-capable internet testbed

Abstract

Building a Quantum Internet requires the development of innovative quantum-enabling networking architectures that integrate advanced communication systems with long-distance quantum communication hardware. Here, we present the implementation of a quantum-enabled internet prototype using a novel physics-centric stack-based quantum network paradigm to govern the dynamics of multiple light-matter Hamiltonians across distant nodes. We demonstrate this concept using a deployed large-scale intercity quantum network connecting laboratories at Stony Brook University and the Brookhaven National Laboratory. This network facilitates a fundamental long-distance quantum network service -that of high-visibility Hong-Ou-Mandel interference of telecom quantum states generated in two independent, telecom-compatible quantum light-matter interfaces separated by a distance of 158 km.