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Proceedings of SPIE, the International Society for Optical Engineering/Proceedings of SPIE

Quantum imaging: enhanced image formation using quantum states of light

Robert W. Boyd, Kam Wai Clifford Chan, Anand K. Jha, Mehul Malik, Colin O’Sullivan, Heedeuk Shin, Petros Zerom

Published Apr 30, 2009• 6 citations
Publisher

Abstract

We review recent research in the field of quantum imaging. Quantum imaging deals with the formation of images that possess higher resolution or better signal-to-noise characteristics than conventional images by making use of the coherence properties of quantum light fields. Quantum imaging also deals with indirect imaging methods such as ghost imaging, in which image information is conveyed not by a single light field but by the correlations between two separate light fields. In this contribution we concentrate primarily on recent results in the area of ghost imaging.

DOI
10.1117/12.819245

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We review recent research in the field of quantum imaging. Quantum imaging deals with the formation of images that possess higher resolution or better signal-to-noise characteristics than conventional images by making use of the coherence properties of quantum light fields. Quantum imaging also deals with indirect imaging methods such as ghost imaging, in which image information is conveyed not by a single light field but by the correlations between two separate light fields. In this contribution we concentrate primarily on recent results in the area of ghost imaging.
Quantum imaging is emerging as a transformative approach for biomedical applications, applying nonclassical properties of light, such as entanglement, squeezing, and quantum correlations, to overcome fundamental limits of conventional techniques. These methods promise superior spatial resolution, enhanced signal-to-noise ratios, improved phase sensitivity, and reduced radiation dose, for potentially safer and more precise imaging for delicate biological samples. Here, we present an overview of quantum optical biomedical imaging technologies as well as quantum-inspired imaging methods, including quantum optical coherence tomography, quantum optical microscopy, ghost imaging, multi-parameter quantum imaging, and imaging with quantum-grade cameras. We describe the operating principles, biomedical applications, and unique advantages of each approach, along with the specific challenges for their translation into real-life practice. This review aims to guide future research toward advancing quantum imaging from experimental demonstrations to impactful biomedical tools.
The process of image recording is arguably one of the most prevalent technology in modern society and continues to inspire vast swathes of research due to its widespread applications spanning military, medical and consumer spheres. The danger present in a field so broad is that separate niches of research can become isolated with critical advancements struggling to traverse the gulfs between. Unifying the field is the omnipresent drive to acquire an ever increasing quality of images at the lowest possible cost, a goal which warrants continual fundamental research. Quantum entanglement exhibits many intriguing characteristics which make it a suitable tool for such fundamental investigations. The process of spontaneous parametric down- conversion has offered a yet unbeaten strength of photon correlations with the quantum nature of their production providing a reliable and controllable source of single-photons. Arising from these attributes is the technique known as ghost imaging. 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One of the most surprising consequences of quantum mechanics is the entanglement of two or more distant particles. Although questions regarding fundamental issues of quantum theory still exist, quantum entanglement has started to play important roles in practical engineering applications. Quantum imaging is one of these exciting areas. Quantum imaging has demonstrated two peculiar features: 1) reproducing ghost images in a nonlocal manner and 2) enhancing the spatial resolution of imaging beyond the diffraction limit. In this paper, we start with the review of classical imaging to establish the basic concepts and formalisms of imaging. We then analyze two-photon imaging with particular emphasis on the physics of spatial resolution enhancement and the ghost imaging phenomenon.
One of the most surprising consequences of quantum mechanics is the entanglement of two or more distant particles. Although questions regarding fundamental issues of quantum theory still exist, quantum entanglement has started to play important roles in practical engineering applications. Quantum imaging is one of these exciting areas. Quantum imaging has demonstrated two peculiar features: (1) reproducing ghost images in a nonlocal manner, and (2) enhancing the spatial resolution of imaging beyond the diffraction limit. In this article, we start with the review of classical imaging to establish the basic concepts and formalisms of imaging. We then analyze two-photon imaging with particular emphasis on the physics of spatial resolution enhancement and the ghost imaging phenomenon.