Quantum positioning and ranging via a distributed sensor network

Abstract

A quantum sensor network with multipartite entanglement offers a sensitivity advantage in optical phase estimation over the classical scheme. To tackle richer sensing problems, we construct a distributed sensor network with four nodes via four partite entanglements, unveil the estimation of the higher order derivative of radio-frequency signal phase, and unlock the potential of quantum target ranging and space positioning. Taking phased-array radar as an example, we demonstrate the optimal quantum advantages for space positioning and target ranging missions. Without doubt, the demonstration that endows innovative physical conception opens up widespread application of quantum sensor networks.