arXiv · 2608.20032
Lensing and enhanced single atom detection via a single-pixel nanostructure
Abstract
We propose and demonstrate a general mechanism for nanoscale lensing based on the phase gradient imposed by a single nanostructure scattering light in its near-field. We verify this effect using an optical waveguide on a substrate, with single atoms serving as quantum probes that sample the near-field intensity through their fluorescence. This quantum probing technique provides a unique, non-destructive approach to characterizing focused optical fields and reveals a 4-fold enhancement in single atom detection efficiency. This work establishes on-chip nanostructures as a multi-functional quantum optics platform that can efficiently route photons, localize fields, and enhance atom-photon coupling, offering new opportunities for trapping and manipulating single atoms and realizing hybrid nanophotonic-atomic systems for quantum applications.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Ling-Xiao Wang, Lei Xu, Ai-Ping Liu, Guang-Jie Chen, Yuan-Hao Yang, Jia-Qi Wang, Xin-Biao Xu, Guang-Can Guo, Chang-Ling Zou, Guo-Yong Xiang. 2026-08-20. Lensing and enhanced single atom detection via a single-pixel nanostructure. https://arxiv.org/abs/2608.20032
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.