Multiparameter estimation with an array of entangled atomic sensors.

In quantum metrology, entangled states of many-particle systems are investigated to enhance measurement precision of the most precise clocks and field sensors. Whereas single-parameter quantum metrology is well established, joint multiparameter estimation poses conceptual challenges and has been explored only theoretically. We experimentally demonstrated multiparameter quantum metrology with an array of entangled atomic ensembles. By splitting a spin-squeezed ensemble, we created an atomic sensor array featuring intersensor entanglement that can be flexibly configured to enhance measurement precision of multiple parameters jointly. Using an optimal estimation protocol, we achieved substantial gains over the standard quantum limit in key multiparameter estimation tasks, thus grounding the concept of quantum enhancement of field sensor arrays and imaging devices. Editor's summary: Precision sensors are often limited by the so-called standard quantum limit, which stems from the quantum noise associated with measurements on a finite number of particles. To combat this limitation, quantum metrology uses entanglement between particles. Li et al. showed that an array of atomic Bose-Einstein condensates with collective spins that are entangled with each other can be used to enhance measurement precision of multiple parameters jointly, surpassing the standard quantum limit. —Jelena Stajic [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]