Abstract:
In order to study the potential applications of quantum correlation measurement and Hong-Ou-Mandel(HOM) interference to laser detection and ranging (LADAR) systems, the method for preparing the correlated two-photon source based on dispersion-shifted fiber (DSF) and the HOM interference principle of identical photons was adopted. A correlated two-photon generation platform and a HOM interferometer for weak coherent light interference experiment were assembled for theoretical analysis and experimental verification. The results show that, the correlated two-photon source has the maximum two-photon generation rate and the ratio of coincidence to accidental coincidence count of about 8kHz and 15, respectively. The visibility of HOM interference fringe is 0.41±0.01, HOM interference can improve the time measuring precision of LADAR to 0.95ps±0.03ps, corresponding to a spatial resolution of 284.06μm±9.94μm. The results lay a foundation for further research to improve LADAR performance by using quantum optics technologies.