Quantum two-way time transfer over a hybrid free-space and fiber link

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Abstract
As the superiority of quantum two-way time transfer (Q-TWTT) has been proved convincingly over fiber links, its implementation on free-space links becomes an urgent need for remote time transfer expanding to the transcontinental distance. In this paper, the first Q-TWTT experimental demonstration over a hybrid link of 2 km-long turbulent free-space and 7 km-long field fiber is reported. Despite the significant loss of ∼30 dB and atmospheric turbulence, reliable time transfer performance lasting for overnights has been realized with time stability in terms of time deviation far below 1 picosecond. This achievement shows the good feasibility of quantum-enhanced time transfer in the space-ground integrated optical links and nicely certifies the capability of Q-TWTT in comparing and synchronizing the state-of-the-art space microwave atomic clocks.
Funding Information
  • Chinese Academy of Sciences (QYZDB-SSW-SLH007)
  • National Natural Science Foundation of China (12033007)
  • Youth Innovation Promotion Association of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (2021408)

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