Los Alamos National Laboratory physicist Diego Dalvit has conceived qCOMBPASS, a radar system utilizing quantum states of light for remote object detection. This potential breakthrough relies on a specialized frequency comb laser to address memory storage issues that have hampered remote quantum sensing since 2019. If successful, qCOMBPASS could offer enhanced sensitivity and resolution compared to traditional radar systems.
qCOMBPASS Concept Emerges from Quantum Optics & Frequency Combs
The qCOMBPASS concept, developed by Diego Dalvit, integrates quantum optics with frequency comb lasers to potentially revolutionize remote sensing. These specialized lasers, which earned researchers a Nobel Prize in 2005, emit spaced pulses enabling precise light wave measurement and control over long distances – characteristics vital for this quantum radar system. Dalvit’s design aims to overcome limitations experienced since 2019, addressing memory storage issues that previously hindered remote quantum sensing attempts. qCOMBPASS utilizes a technique termed “quantum frequency combs with path identity for remote sensing of signatures” to scan for objects like aircraft.
The system combines light squeezing technology, originally detailed in a 1991 University of Rochester paper, with the capabilities of frequency combs to combat photon loss and extend sensing range. This approach could allow for the detection of low-reflectivity objects even in noisy conditions, offering advantages over traditional radar and potentially serving as “anti-stealth” technology.
2022 Brainstorming & the Genesis of qCOMBPASS Methodology
The genesis of qCOMBPASS began in December 2022 with a “Eureka moment” for Diego Dalvit while showering, stemming from ideas initially brainstormed with colleagues earlier that year. This breakthrough involved realizing a solution to long-standing memory storage issues hindering remote quantum sensing efforts since 2019, specifically focusing on how to sense objects without storing photons. Dalvit connected his prior knowledge of advantageous quantum states of photons with a recently mentioned technology – frequency comb lasers – leading to the core concept for qCOMBPASS.
Following the brainstorming session, Dalvit rapidly explored the feasibility of his idea, drawing on a 1991 paper detailing light squeezing technology to enhance photon robustness. This led to a 35-page proposal submitted to Laboratory program managers, ultimately securing funding through the LDRD-Director’s Initiative in early 2024 to begin experimental testing.
The quantum sensing scheme we have developed achieves a sensing capability that is impossible in classical physics.
Diego Dalvit
Experimental Validation of Path Identity Coherence in 2024
Experiments to validate qCOMBPASS began in January 2024, following a year of LDRD-Director’s Initiative funding secured after initial theoretical work. These tests focus on the core principle of reflectivity sensing utilizing undetected photons, building upon a 1991 demonstration of light squeezing and path identity coherence. The team successfully replicated earlier work at close range, establishing a foundation for scaling the technology toward remote sensing applications. qCOMBPASS leverages a newly delivered frequency comb laser—a technology recognized with a Nobel Prize in 2005—to potentially achieve greater sensitivity and resolution than conventional radar. Successful validation could lead to a system capable of detecting low-reflectivity objects, offering advantages in defense and communications.
Potential for Long-Range Detection & National Security Applications
The qCOMBPASS system aims for detection capabilities beyond current technology, offering potential advantages for national security. Specifically, the design could detect low-reflectivity objects, functioning as “anti-stealth technology” by operating effectively in noisy environments. This enhanced detection is achieved through a method extremely difficult to intercept, and it provides inherent protection against both jamming and signal spoofing attempts by adversaries. Beyond simply detecting objects, qCOMBPASS is projected to gather detailed information about targets. The system could potentially determine distance, velocity, and even material composition of remote objects, extending sensing ranges to unprecedented distances—potentially from satellite to Earth or even between satellites.
Mark Wallace, of the Laboratory’s Intelligence and Emerging Threats program, highlighted this unlimited range as a key factor for diverse applications, moving beyond purely lab-based experimentation.
