Quantum-enabled optical large-baseline interferometry: applications, protocols and feasibility

Huang, Zixin and Titov, Oleg and Schmidt, Mikołaj K. and Pope, Benjamin and Brennen, Gavin K. and Oi, Daniel K. L. and Kok, Pieter (2026) Quantum-enabled optical large-baseline interferometry: applications, protocols and feasibility. Advances in Physics: X, 11 (1). 2597311. ISSN 2374-6149 (https://doi.org/10.1080/23746149.2025.2597311)

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Abstract

Optical Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) offers the potential for unprecedented angular resolution in both astronomical imaging and geodesy measurements. Classical approaches face limitations due to photon loss, background noise, and their need for dynamical delay lines over large distances. This review surveys recent developments in quantum-enabled optical VLBI that address these challenges using entanglement-assisted protocols, quantum memory storage, and nonlocal measurement techniques. While its application to astronomy is well known, we also examine how these techniques may be extended to geodesy–specifically, the monitoring of Earth’s rotation. Particular attention is given to quantum-enhanced telescope architectures, including repeater-based long-baseline interferometry and quantum error-corrected encoding schemes, which offer a pathway toward high-fidelity optical VLBI. To aid the discussion, we also compare specifications for key enabling technologies to current state-of-the-art experimental components. By integrating quantum technologies, future interferometric networks may achieve diffraction-limited imaging at optical and near-infrared wavelengths, surpassing the constraints of classical techniques and enabling new precision tests of astrophysical and fundamental physics phenomena.

ORCID iDs

Oi, Daniel K. L. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0965-9509

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• Item metadata

  Item type:	Article
  ID code:	95140
  Dates:	Date Event 1 January 2026 Published 22 December 2025 Published Online 26 November 2025 Accepted 1 September 2025 Submitted
  Subjects:	Science > Physics
  Department:	Faculty of Science > Physics
  Depositing user:	Pure Administrator
  Date deposited:	06 Jan 2026 10:28
  Last modified:	03 Feb 2026 08:27
  URI:	https://strathprints.strath.ac.uk/id/eprint/95140