Quantum Optics and Quantum Technology with Giant Atoms

Until about a decade ago, the study of interaction between light and matter at the quantum level generally proceeded under the assumption that the size of the emitters constituting the matter was much smaller than the wavelength of the light it interacted with. Following experiments with artificial atoms in the form of superconducting qubits, and later also other systems, we now know that this assumption does not always hold. It is possible to construct setups where quantum emitters couple to light or sound at multiple points, which are wavelength distances apart. These multiple coupling points result in interference effects, which can modify many well-known phenomena in the field of quantum optics.

The field of quantum optics with giant atoms has been expanding rapidly in the past few years. It has reached a point where it is precipitating advances both in fundamental quantum optics and in applications in quantum technologies. In this Special Topic, we aim to showcase both these facets of giant atoms.