Progress Towards an Efficient Quantum Network with Rubidium Atoms*

We report on progress towards implementing an elementary quantum network between individual 87Rb atoms mediated by a photonic link. Each network node consists of a compact "plug-and-play" platform that utilizes in-vacuum optics and optical fiber interfaces. With these components the experiment footprint, including photon collection optics, is significantly reduced. In this first version, we implement a high-NA parabolic mirror for photon collection. In addition, we report on progress towards upgrading the system to use a near-concentric optical cavity for enhanced photon collection, which can be used to achieve atom-atom entanglement rates up to a few kHz, exceeding the current state of the art for neutral atoms and ions.