Probing Non-Equilibrium Topological Order on a Quantum Processor

Out-of-equilibrium phases in quantum many-body systems exhibit dynamical properties that are forbidden by equilibrium thermodynamics. Among these non-equilibrium phases are periodically driven (Floquet) systems, that are generically difficult to simulate classically due to their high entanglement. In this talk I will present the realization of a Floquet topologically ordered state on an array of superconducting qubits. We image the characteristic dynamics of its chiral edge modes, characterize its emergent anyonic excitations, and introduce an interferometric protocol to define and measure a bulk topological invariant. This approach allows us to probe dynamical anyon transmutation in systems of up to 58 qubits. Our work demonstrates that quantum processors can provide key insights into the thus-far largely unexplored landscape of highly entangled non-equilibrium phases of matter.