Quantum ghost imaging based on a “looking back” 2D SPAD array

Abstract

Quantum ghost imaging (QGI) is an intriguing imaging protocol that exploits photon-pair correlations stemming from spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC). QGI retrieves images from two-path joint measurements, where single-path detection does not allow us to reconstruct the target image. Here we report on a QGI implementation exploiting a two-dimensional (2D) single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array detector for the spatially resolving path. Moreover, the employment of non-degenerate SPDC allows us to investigate samples at infrared wavelengths without the need for short-wave infrared (SWIR) cameras, while the spatial detection can be still performed in the visible region, where the more advanced silicon-based technology can be exploited. Our findings advance QGI schemes towards practical applications.