Cubic phase states provide the essential non-Gaussian resource for continuous-variable quantum computing. We show that they also offer significant potential for quantum metrology, surpassing the phase-sensing sensitivity of all Gaussian states at equal average photon number. Optimal sensitivity requires only moderate initial squeezing, and the non-Gaussian advantage remains robust against loss and detection noise. We identify optimal measurement strategies and show that several experimentally relevant preparation schemes surpass Gaussian limits, in some cases reaching the sensitivity of cubic phase states. Our results establish cubic phase states as a promising resource for quantum-enhanced precision measurements beyond Gaussian limits.
Quantum metrology aims to achieve measurement precision that surpasses classical limits in the estimation of physical parameters. In realistic conditions, however, its advantage can be diminished by interactions between a quantum system and its environment. This necessitates careful design of quantum resources that can sustain enhanced performance even under noise. Here, we investigate how a quantum non-Gaussian operation can provide an advantage in noisy quantum metrology. Specifically, we examine the effect of single-photon subtraction applied to a two-mode squeezed vacuum state in the task of phase estimation using a Mach–Zehnder interferometer under photon loss. The single-photon subtraction can be implemented either before or after the first beam splitter in the interferometer. By evaluating the quantum Fisher information for both the original and the photon-subtracted states, we assess the potential enhancement in sensing precision. We show that the enhancement occurs when photon subtraction is performed before the first beam splitter, provided that loss acts only on the signal mode. Our findings shed light on the role of non-Gaussian operations in noisy quantum metrology, clarifying when photon subtraction can yield a genuine advantage over Gaussian resources.
This study investigates the use of orbital angular momentum (OAM) to enhance phase estimation in Mach-Zehnder interferometers by employing non-Gaussian states as input resources in the presence of noise. Our research demonstrates that non-Gaussian states, particularly the photon-subtraction-then-addition state, exhibit the best sensitivity in the presence of symmetric noise. Additionally, a higher order of the Bose operator of non-Gaussian states provides better sensitivity for symmetric noise. OAM can mitigate the deterioration of noise, making it possible to estimate small phase shifts $\ensuremath{\theta}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0$. OAM enhances the resolution and sensitivity of all input states and mitigates the deterioration caused by photon loss. Additionally, OAM enhances the resolution and sensitivity of all input states, enabling the sensitivity to approach the
1/N limit even under significant photon loss (e.g.,
50 symmetric photon loss). These results hold promise for enhancing the sensitivity and robustness of quantum metrology, particularly in the presence of significant photon loss.