Denmark enlists Microsoft to construct the globe's most potent quantum computer
In a significant move towards the future of technology, Denmark is set to construct Magne, the world's most powerful quantum computer. This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Danish initiative QuNorth, aims to revolutionise various sectors, from drug discovery to climate modelling, by performing faster, more detailed calculations and simulations than classical computers.
QuNorth, the driving force behind Magne, has secured €80mn in funding from the European Investment Fund for Start-ups (EIFO) and the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The project is currently on the hunt for a CEO to lead this groundbreaking endeavour.
Magne, which will be housed in Copenhagen, will be 100% Danish-owned, with equal ownership split between the two founding institutions. The construction is expected to commence in autumn 2025.
The potential of quantum technology is immense, and Magne is poised to capitalise on this. Logical qubits, error-corrected "virtual" qubits made by combining multiple physical qubits, are a key component of this technology. QuNorth's partner, Quantinuum, leads in logical qubits, having demonstrated a record of 50.
Atom Computing, a California-based company, brings its expertise in physical qubits to the project. Atom holds the record for the most physical qubits in a single system (1180). Microsoft will contribute its Azure Quantum software stack to the project.
Denmark's Minister for Business, Morten Bødskov, emphasised the importance of seizing the opportunities that quantum technology presents. He stated, "Denmark and the EU must seize the opportunity that quantum technology comes with."
With a team of around 10 initially, the project is set for a full launch and academic programme by late next year. If all goes according to plan, Magne will begin operations around the turn of 2026/27.
The construction of Magne marks Denmark's entry into the global quantum race, which is currently dominated by the US and China. As Europe, including Denmark, plays catch-up, the potential for quantum advantage, offering practical advantages over classical computers in solving specific real-world problems, is within reach.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend checking QuNorth’s official website or recent Danish technology news sources. This exciting development in Danish technology is a significant step forward in the quantum race, and we look forward to seeing the progress made by Magne in the coming years.
The project spearheaded by QuNorth, Magne, leverages science and technology, particularly quantum technology, to revolutionize various sectors through faster and more detailed calculations. QuNorth's partner, Quantinuum, has demonstrated a record of 50 logical qubits, a key component of this technology.
