Shortwave frequency-hopping reception via a Rydberg atom-based electrically small antenna

There is an inherent trade-off in shortwave (SW) signal reception between achieving wide operational bandwidth and high radio sensitivity. Advances in SW radio reception hold significant potential for applications in communications, broadcasting, and over-the-horizon radar. Here, we demonstrate a proof-of-concept Rydberg SW receiver integrated with the frequency-hopping technique, achieving a highly sensitive reception compatible with large bandwidth. By shifting a carrier across the whole SW band, the atomic communication maintains a stable and high data capacity far beyond the Chu–Harrington limit. The outcomes of our work facilitate the development of Rydberg atom-based RF field sensing and communication.