We propose a new method for atomic-scale imaging of spatial current patterns in nanoscopic quantum networks by using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). By measuring the current flowing from the STM tip into one of the leads attached to the network as a function of tip position, one obtains an atomically resolved spatial image of “current riverbeds” whose spatial structure reflects the coherent flow of electrons out of equilibrium. We show that this method can be successfully applied in a variety of network topologies and is robust against dephasing effects.

• Received 24 May 2012

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.110.086802