Automated quantum operations in photonic qutrits

Abstract

We report an experimental implementation of automated state transformations on spatial photonic qutrits following the theoretical proposal made by Baldijão et al. [Phys. Rev. A 96, 032329 (2017)]. A qutrit state is simulated by using three Gaussian beams, and after some state operations, the transformed state is available in the end in terms of the basis state. The state transformation setup uses a spatial light modulator and a calcite-based interferometer. The results reveal the usefulness of the operation method. The experimental data show a good agreement with theoretical predictions, opening possibilities for explorations in higher dimensions and in a wide range of applications. This is a necessary step in qualifying spatial photonic qudits as a competitive setup for experimental research in the implementation of quantum algorithms which demand a large number of steps.