We consider the dynamics of a quantum directional reference frame undergoing repeated interactions. We first describe how a precise sequence of measurement outcomes affects the reference frame, looking at both the case that the measurement record is averaged over and the case wherein it is retained. We find, in particular, that there is interesting dynamics in the latter situation, which cannot be revealed by considering the average case. We then consider in detail how a sequence of rotationally invariant unitary interactions affects the reference frame, a situation, which leads to quite different dynamics than the case of repeated measurements. We then consider strategies for correcting reference frame drift if we are given a set of particles with polarization opposite to the direction of drift. In particular, we find that, by implementing a suitably chosen unitary interaction after every two measurements, we can eliminate the rotational drift of the reference frame.

• Received 13 May 2010

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.82.032320