Wavelengths in the telecommunication window (ca.1.25--1.65 μm) are ideal for quantum communication, due to the low transmission loss in optical-fiber networks. To realize quantum networks operating at these wavelengths, we need long-lived quantum memories that couple efficiently to telecom-band photons. This study proposes using optical tweezers to couple neutral ytterbium atoms, which have a strong telecom-wavelength transition, to a silicon photonic-crystal cavity. The combination of high system efficiency, telecom-band operation, and long coherence times makes this platform well suited for quantum optics on a silicon chip and long-distance quantum communication.
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A 2019 study studied this question.