Primitive prototypes of quantum networks are being explored by IQSE researchers. Single photons are created using a vapor of rubidium-87 atoms (inside the magnetically shielded canister shown in the foreground), and transmitted to a separate rubidium-87 vapor cell (inside the magnetically shielded canister shown in the background) using an optical fiber. By utilizing the process known as electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT), the single photons can be slowed stored in and retrieved from the second vapor cell. In this way, the rubidium vapor serves as a quantum memory for the single photons.

Read more: Nature, 438, 837, 2005