A compact multi-pixel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector array supporting gigabit space-to-ground communications.

ABSTRACT: Classical and quantum space-to-ground communications necessitate highly sensitive receivers capable of extracting information from modulated photons to extend the communication distance from near-earth orbits to deep space explorations. To achieve gigabit data rates while mitigating strong background noise photons and beam drift in a highly attenuated free-space channel, a comprehensive design of a multi-functional detector is indispensable. In this study, we present an innovative compact multi-pixel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector array that integrates near-unity detection efficiency (91.6%), high photon counting rate (1.61 Gcps), large dynamic range for resolving different photon numbers (1-24), and four-quadrant position sensing function all within one device. Furthermor

SUBMITTER: Hao H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10803749 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature