Quantum state reconstruction via continuous measurement

We present a new procedure for quantum state reconstruction based on weak continuous measurement of an ensemble average. By applying controlled evolution to the initial state new information is continually mapped onto the measured observable. A Bayesian filter is then used to update the state-estimate in accordance with the measurement record. This generalizes the standard paradigm for quantum tomography based on strong, destructive measurements on separate ensembles. This approach to state estimation can be non-destructive and real-time, giving information about observables whose evolution cannot be described classically, opening the door to new types of quantum feedback control.Comment: 4 pages, 2 figure

Quantum Control of the Hyperfine Spin of a Cs Atom Ensemble

We demonstrate quantum control of a large spin-angular momentum associated with the F=3 hyperfine ground state of 133Cs. A combination of time dependent magnetic fields and a static tensor light shift is used to implement near-optimal controls and map a fiducial state to a broad range of target states, with yields in the range 0.8-0.9. Squeezed states are produced also by an adiabatic scheme that is more robust against errors. Universal control facilitates the encoding and manipulation of qubits and qudits in atomic ground states, and may lead to improvement of some precision measurements.Comment: 4 pages, 4 figures (color