Can Quantum Linked Signals Be Observed in Real-Time in Space?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of sending quantum linked signals into space and the possibility of determining in real-time whether these signals are observed. The scope includes theoretical considerations of quantum entanglement and communication systems.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether a "quantum linked system" refers to entangled particles, asserting that it is impossible to know if the remote particle has been observed or interacted with.
  • Another participant suggests that receiving a signal back would indicate observation, but acknowledges that this process takes too long.
  • A different perspective proposes that the observation of the signal can be linked to a quantum-affected action, suggesting a method of sending signals in pulses to check for flags indicating observation.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the implications of observation timing, emphasizing the importance of knowing if a signal has ever been observed rather than when.
  • There is a suggestion that broadcasting entangled pairs into space complicates the ability to determine real-time observations, indicating a desire for a more immediate understanding.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of observation in quantum systems, with no consensus reached on the feasibility of real-time observation of quantum linked signals.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations related to the definitions of observation and entanglement, as well as the challenges of real-time communication in quantum systems.

Brad Jamison
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Can we send a quantum linked signal into space and be able to tell immediately whether or not it is ever observed?
 
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By "quantum linked system" do you mean one member of a pair of entangled particles? If so, the answer is no, there is no way of knowing whether the remote member of the pair has been observed, measured, or interacted with anything else in any way. Furthermore, the hypothetical remote observer won't even know that the particle is part of an entangled pair.
 
Welcome to PF!
We would know it was observed if we received a signal back...
 
No. We link the signal to a quantum affected action. Just like the old detector slits. Any observation of the signal will flag the event. Us looking for the flags is observation of the signals. So we do it in pulses. Send, check for flags, send again and so forth. I'm not sure that it matters when it is observed, just whether or not it is ever observed. Similar to the quantum communication systems that can flag whether or not a message has been observed prior to it's observation by the recipient.
 
Comeback City said:
Welcome to PF!
We would know it was observed if we received a signal back...
That takes too long.
 
Nugatory said:
By "quantum linked system" do you mean one member of a pair of entangled particles? If so, the answer is no, there is no way of knowing whether the remote member of the pair has been observed, measured, or interacted with anything else in any way. Furthermore, the hypothetical remote observer won't even know that the particle is part of an entangled pair.
I'm not sure about that. I think the problem is broadcasting half of these pairs out into the sky. Then we have to wait for any possible observations. What I'm saying is more real-time. (pun intended).
 

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