Quantum eraser enables single-shot quantum holography with undetected photons

Abstract

Quantum holography with undetected photons (QHUP) enables the complex amplitude of infrared to be acquired beyond the sensitivity range of silicon based sensors, through induced coherence withoud induced emission. QHUP generally requires multiple phase-shifted holograms to retrieve the complex-amplitude distribution of an object, which limits measurement stability and temporal resolution. Although classical parallel phase-shifting holography provides a favorable balance between temporal and spatial resolution, it has not previously been implemented in QHUP because of the constraints imposed by photon distinguishability. In this study, we propose a quantum eraser-based geometric phase-shifting QHUP. By accurately erasing not only polarization distinguishability but also temporal distinguishability arising from differences in the optical paths, the complex-amplitude distribution of an object can be retrieved in a single shot using a silicon-based image sensor equipped with a polarization-filter array. This single-shot acquisition, combined with real-time processing, enables the observation of dynamic objects in the near-infrared spectral region. To the best of our knowledge, these experimental results constitute the first real-time acquisition of the complex-amplitude distribution of a near-infrared object using QHUP with a silicon-based image sensor equipped with a polarization-filter array. Furthermore, to enhance the reproducibility and applicability of this study, the experimental optical setup, bill of materials, and source code for real-time imaging have been made openly available. The ability to retrieve the complex-amplitude information carried by undetected photons in real time is expected to extend the applicability of QHUP to a wide range of fields, including spectroscopic imaging and semiconductor inspection.