Enriching the Quantum Toolbox of Ultracold Molecules with Rydberg Atoms

We describe a quantum information architecture consisting of a hybrid array of optically trapped molecules and atoms. This design leverages the large transition dipole moments of Rydberg atoms to mediate fast, high-fidelity gates between qubits encoded in coherent molecular degrees of freedom. Error channels of detuning, decay, pulse area noise, and leakage to other molecular states are discussed. The molecule-Rydberg interaction can also be used to enable nondestructive molecule detection and rotational state readout. We consider a specific near-term implementation of this scheme using NaCs molecules and Cs Rydberg atoms, showing that it is possible to implement 300-ns gates with a potential fidelity of > 99.9%.

Automated summary

This study presents a quantum information architecture utilizing an array of optically trapped molecules and atoms. By taking advantage of the large transition dipole moments of Rydberg atoms, fast and high-fidelity gates between qubits encoded in coherent molecular degrees of freedom can be achieved. The paper discusses potential error channels and also explores the possibility of nondestructive molecule detection and rotational state readout through the molecule-Rydberg interaction.