Microsoft enlists Denmark for constructing the planet's most potent quantum computer
In the heart of Copenhagen, a groundbreaking quantum computing project is taking shape. Known as Magne, this initiative by QuNorth in Denmark aims to push the boundaries of quantum computing technology.
At the core of Magne lies the concept of logical qubits, essential for quantum computing due to their ability to encode error-corrected, stable quantum information across multiple physical qubits. This redundancy, achieved through quantum error correction methods like the "surface code," protects information against errors caused by noise and imperfections in physical qubits, enabling fault-tolerant operations.
Logical qubits are constructed by encoding quantum information into a collective state of many physical qubits. The result is a more stable and reliable quantum processing unit, ideal for running complex, deep quantum circuits with high fidelity. Recent breakthroughs have validated this approach computationally, making logical qubits the foundational units for practical, scalable quantum computing.
Magne is expected to utilise this technology to build a robust, fault-tolerant quantum computing platform. While there is no direct mention of Magne and QuNorth in the same breath, the global advances in logical qubit technology, such as the simulation of large-scale logical qubit systems and demonstrations of error suppression through techniques like magic state distillation, underpin efforts in state-of-the-art quantum computing projects worldwide.
The significance of logical qubits in a project like Magne is that they enable the transition from noisy, error-prone physical qubits to reliable quantum information processing units. This shift is crucial for scaling quantum computers beyond experimental prototypes to practical devices capable of solving real-world problems.
Magne is planned for a full launch and academic programme in late 2023. The system will be deployed using a "Level 2" quantum system and is expected to include around 50 logical qubits and more than 1,200 physical qubits.
QuNorth, the driving force behind Magne, will initially employ a team of around 10. The search is on for a CEO to lead the Magne project. Collaboration on Magne comes from Microsoft and California-based Atom Computing. Microsoft will contribute its Azure Quantum software stack, while Atom will provide hardware based on its "neutral atom" design.
Denmark's ambitious quantum computing project, Magne, is set to begin operations around the turn of 2026/27. With equal ownership split between the two founding institutions, Magne is poised to make a significant impact in the global quantum computing landscape.
[1] https://arxiv.org/abs/2106.07558 [2] https://arxiv.org/abs/1909.11483 [3] https://arxiv.org/abs/2103.15979 [4] https://arxiv.org/abs/2109.02975
Science and technology play vital roles in the development of Magne, the ambitious quantum computing project taking shape in Copenhagen. The project, led by QuNorth, relies on the advancements in logical qubit technology to build a fault-tolerant quantum computing platform, allowing for the scaling of quantum computers beyond experimental prototypes to practical devices capable of solving real-world problems. (References: [1], [2], [3], [4])
