Exploring the Lasers that Power Quantum Computers

This week, Anna and Guillermo chat with Josh Yang, CEO and co-founder of Brightlight Photonics, about the lasers that power quantum computers. Josh explains how lasers are used in neutral atom and other atom-based quantum systems to cool and move atoms, manipulate qubit states and read out results. They explore why these systems require so many different lasers and how today’s bulky, expensive optical setups can become a bottleneck as quantum computers scale.

They also cover Brightlight’s work miniaturising the Ti:sapphire laser, a longstanding workhorse of quantum optics. Josh explains how integrated waveguides and semiconductor manufacturing techniques make this possible, the challenges of packaging and powering these tiny lasers, and how a more compact, versatile laser platform could better support quantum computing.

This one is a departure from the usual topics covered on the show, but we hope you find it as fascinating as we did.

Related Links

Brightlight PhotonicsJosh Yang Google Scholar ProfileEpisode 357: Quantum Engineering with Jelena VučkovićStanford Report: Chip-scale titanium-sapphire laser puts powerful technology in reach Titanium:Sapphire-on-insulator for broadband tunable lasers and high-power amplifiers on chipTitanium:sapphire-on-insulator integrated lasers and amplifiersMulti-dimensional data transmission using inverse-designed silicon photonics and microcombsBrightlight Photonics Images shared by Josh YangEpisode 400: Quantum Advances, Hybrid Signatures and SNARKs to the Rescue with Dan BonehEpisode 402: The Quantum Question Panel – Live from zkSummit14

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