Dawn of the Quantum Internet, Secure Quantum Cryptography, and Harnessing Entanglement

WASHINGTON – Quantum technologies harness the unusual properties of the atomic and subatomic world, where the rules of classical physics do not apply. Properties like entanglement – what Einstein called “spooky action at a distance” – and superposition – where a single particle can exist in multiple states at once – provide remarkable opportunities to push current communications, cryptography, and computing technologies beyond their current limitations. But, what are the latest innovations in quantum research and where are new discoveries taking us?

The 2019 OSA Frontiers in Optics and APS/DLS Laser Science (FiO + LS) conference (15-19 September at the Marriott Wardman Park in Washington, D.C., U.S.A.) will address these questions and more through wide-ranging presentations covering many intriguing advances in quantum technologies. 

This highly anticipated gathering of scientific and industry leaders will also feature more than 30 optics and photonics topics in four thematic areas: Autonomous Systems, Nanophotonics and Plasmonics, Virtual Reality and Augmented Vision, as well as Quantum Technologies – the first-ever crosscutting theme at an FiO + LS conference. Each of these four themes includes an all-invited program of panel discussions and is anchored by a 45-minute talk offered by a Visionary Speaker. Select topics and sessions of interest include:

• Sunday, 15 September, Quantum Sensing for Industry and Fundamental Physics: Quantum properties, like superposition and entanglement, could allow sensors to achieve unprecedented sensitives and stabilities, when compared to similar instruments based on classical physics. These new capabilities are important for advancing critical areas of research in communications, computer science, and space exploration. Session FS1A: Quantum Sensing for Industry and Fundamental Physics I & 2, Washington 4 Room; Session I, 8 a.m. EDT; Session 2, 10:30 a.m. EDT
• Monday, 16 September, Quantum Science: To develop innovative technologies, engineers need a solid foundation of quantum science upon which to build. This session will cover the theory, generation, measurement, and applications of quantum light states and entangled photons, which are the building blocks of quantum computers and more. Session LM4D, Quantum Science I and II, Washington Room 4; Session I, 2 p.m. EDT; Session 2, 4 p.m. EDT
• Tuesday, 17 September, Optimized (Quantum) Photonics, Visionary Speaker Jelena Vuckovic, Stanford University, California, U.S.A.: Combining state-of-the-art optimization and machine-learning techniques with high-speed electromagnetic solvers, researchers have a new approach to “inverse” design and can implement classical and quantum photonic circuits with superior properties, including robustness to errors in fabrication and temperature, compact footprints, novel functionalities, and high efficiencies. Washington Room 5: 9:15 – 10 a.m. EDT
• Wednesday, 18 September, The Dawn of the Quantum Internet, Plenary Speaker Ronald Hanson, QuTech, Delft University of Technology, Netherlands: Entanglement is arguably the most counterintuitive yet potentially most powerful element in quantum theory. Future quantum networks may harness the unique features of entanglement in exciting applications by connecting multi-qubit nodes through photonic channels. Today we are at the brink of realizing the first multi-node quantum networks. This talk discusses the concepts, current status and prospects of quantum internet research. 12:00 – 12:45 p.m. EDT
• Wednesday, 18 September,  The National Quantum Initiative: In December 2018, the U.S. Congress passed the National Quantum Initiative, legislation that provides for a coordinated federal program to accelerate quantum research and development for the economic and national security of the United States. What has changed since then? Find out from University of Maryland quantum physicist and IonQ founder Christopher Monroe. Science & Industry Showcase Theater, 11:15 – 11:55 a.m. EDT
• Thursday, 19 September, Quantum Supremacy: Checking a Quantum Computer with a Classical Supercomputer, Visionary Speaker John Martinis, University of California Santa Barbara, California, U.S.A.: As microelectronics technology nears the end of exponential growth over time, known as Moore’s law, there is a renewed interest in new computing paradigms such as quantum computing. A key step in the roadmap to build a scientifically or commercially useful quantum computer will be to demonstrate its exponentially growing computing power. Session FTh2A: Washington 4 Room 9:15 – 10:00 a.m. EDT

Press Registration

Press registration for FIO + LS is open to working media who meet FIO + LS’s credentialing guidelines. https://www.frontiersinoptics.com/home/media-center/credentialing-guidelines/. Contact a member of the FIO + LS Media Relations team to request registration or for more information at [email protected].

About FiO + LS

Frontiers in Optics is The Optical Society’s (OSA) Annual Meeting and held together with Laser Science, a meeting sponsored by the American Physical Society’s Division of Laser Science (DLS). The two meetings unite the OSA and APS communities for five days of quality, cutting-edge presentations, in-demand invited speakers and a variety of special events spanning a broad range of topics in optics and photonics—the science of light—across the disciplines of physics, biology and chemistry. The exhibit floor will feature leading optics companies, technology products and programs.

More information at: FrontiersinOptics.org. Connect with us for #FiO19:  @OpticalSociety,  The Optical Society,  The Optical Society.

About The Optical Society

Founded in 1916, The Optical Society (OSA) is the leading professional organization for scientists, engineers, students and business leaders who fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate achievements in the science of light. Through world-renowned publications, meetings and membership initiatives, OSA provides quality research, inspired interactions and dedicated resources for its extensive global network of optics and photonics experts. For more information, visit osa.org.

Media Contact

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