A Quantum Optimal Control Problem with State Constrained Preserving Coherence

Abstract: In this work, we address the problem of maximizing fidelity in a quantum state transformation process controlled in such a way as to keep decoherence within given bounds. We consider a three-level $\Lambda$-type atom subjected to Markovian decoherence characterized by non-unital decoherence channels. We introduce fidelity as the performance index for the quantum state transformation process since the goal is to maximize the similarity of the final state density operator with the one of the desired target state. We formulate the quantum optimal control problem with state constraints where the later reflect the fact that the decoherence level remains within a pre-defined bound. Optimality conditions in the form of a Maximum Principle of Pontryagin in Gamkrelidze's form are given. These provide a complete set of relations enabling the computation of the optimal control strategy. This is a novel approach in the context of quantum systems.