Schrödinger cat states

Wigner function of the small Schrödinger cat, 'kitten' state

Characterisation of Schrödinger Kitten states via Continuous Variable resources

Schrödinger ‘cat states’ are defined as a quantum superposition of two quasi-classical, macroscopically distinguishable states of light. Small amplitude cat states, dubbed ‘kitten states’ have recently been experimentally engineered through the subtraction of a single photon from the squeezed vacuum.

We are currently investigating the characterisation of kitten states using only homodyne detection. Our experimental protocol may show advantages over the existing hybrid technique which combines discrete variables and continuous variables techniques.

Wigner function of the single photon subtracted squeezed vacuum state