Quantum teleportation for 44 kilometers: a step towards creating a global quantum internet

Quantum teleportation, which until recently was considered science fiction, is now moving into the category of applied science. For the first time in history, a research team from Fermilab and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) has successfully transmitted the quantum state of photons over a distance of 44 kilometers with high accuracy exceeding 90%. This breakthrough can become the basis for creating a fundamentally new communication infrastructure-the quantum Internet.

Breakthrough in quantum communication

The experiment involved two independent quantum networks-CQNET and FQNET, connected to the existing fiber-optic infrastructure. Scientists have managed to transmit qubits-elementary units of quantum information - over a considerable distance without losing state. The high level of accuracy proves that the technology is scalable and can be applied in real-world environments, not just in a laboratory environment.

How quantum teleportation works

Contrary to the name, quantum teleportation does not mean moving objects. We are talking about the transfer of the quantum state of one particle to another at a distance — using a phenomenon known as quantum entanglement. Connected particles, regardless of the distance between them, maintain synchronization, allowing you to instantly transmit information about the state. This opens the way to creating ultra-fast, secure communication channels that do not depend on traditional networks.

Towards a quantum Internet

The breakthrough comes shortly after the US Department of Energy unveiled an ambitious plan to build a national quantum network. One of the first practical steps will be the implementation of the Illinois Express Quantum Network project — a quantum network that will be deployed in the Chicago area. Researchers have already started implementing the pilot infrastructure.

"Now we are moving from basic science to applied implementation of quantum networks on an urban scale," commented Panagiotis Spentsouris, one of the project managers at Fermilab.

Revolution in the digital space

The creation of a quantum Internet can completely change the perception of data transfer speed and security. In the future, this will lead to the integration of quantum computers into global networks that can perform calculations and exchange data at a level that is not available for modern digital systems. In addition, such networks are highly resistant to external interference, which makes them ideal for use in critical areas — from scientific calculations to national security.

"We are proud to have achieved such a significant result in the field of stable and scalable quantum communications," said Maria Spiropoulou, Research Director of the IN — Q-NET program.

The scientific community is cautiously optimistic: the era of quantum communications begins today.