NIST researchers are developing a portfolio of quantum network applications, including secure communication and distributed quantum sensing. Quantum sensors can measure electric fields, magnetic fields, and temperature with high precision and spatial resolution when connected in an entangled network. NIST has demonstrated theoretical results and filed patents related to this technology.
Cryptography is another key area of focus. Quantum networks could enable new cryptographic protocols like device-independent random number generation, position-based cryptography, and fair two-party computation. These protocols are being studied for implementation on near-term quantum networks.
As quantum networks expand, multiplexing quantum and classical signals in a single fiber becomes important. NIST is developing classical communication technologies using extremally weak laser pulses to minimize crosstalk between quantum and classical channels.
The research team is led by Alexey Gorshkov, Carl Miller, Dustin Moody, Lily Chen, and Yi-Kai Liu, with notable publications in quantum sensing, cryptography, and post-quantum security.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/pml/productsservices/quantum-networks-nist/applications-quantum-networks
Keywords: entanglement, quantum network, distributed measurements
