Minimal orthonormal bases for pure quantum state estimation

Abstract

We present an analytical method to estimate pure quantum states using a minimum of three measurement bases in any finite-dimensional Hilbert space. This is optimal as two bases are insufficient to construct an informationally complete positive operator-valued measurement (IC-POVM) for pure states. We demonstrate our method using a binary tree structure, providing an algorithmic path for implementation. The performance of the method is evaluated through numerical simulations, showcasing its effectiveness for quantum state estimation.