Denmark Partners With Microsoft to Build Top Quantum Computer
▼ Summary
– Denmark plans to build the world’s most powerful quantum computer, named Magne, backed by €80mn from EIFO and the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
– The system will be developed by Microsoft and Atom Computing, combining Microsoft’s Azure Quantum software with Atom’s neutral atom hardware.
– Magne is expected to feature 50 logical qubits and over 1,200 physical qubits, potentially making it the most advanced quantum computer to date.
– Logical qubits, which use error correction for stability, are key to achieving Level 2 quantum systems and practical quantum advantage.
– Denmark aims to strengthen Europe’s position in the global quantum race, with Magne set to begin operations in 2026/27 and be housed in Copenhagen.
Denmark is making a strategic leap into quantum computing by collaborating with Microsoft and Atom Computing to develop what could become the world’s most advanced quantum system. The ambitious project, named QuNorth, has secured €80 million in funding from Denmark’s export and investment fund (EIFO) and the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
The upcoming quantum computer, dubbed Magne, will combine Microsoft’s Azure Quantum software with Atom Computing’s cutting-edge hardware. The system is expected to feature 50 logical qubits and over 1,200 physical qubits, positioning it as a potential leader in the field. Atom Computing currently holds the record for physical qubits, while Quantinuum leads in logical qubits, Magne could be the first to merge both achievements in a single machine.
Logical qubits are crucial because they address one of quantum computing’s biggest challenges: error correction. Unlike fragile physical qubits, logical qubits bundle multiple physical qubits together to create stable, reliable units for calculations. This breakthrough is what defines Level 2 quantum systems, which are seen as essential for achieving quantum advantage, the point where quantum computers outperform classical ones in solving real-world problems.
Denmark’s investment signals its determination to compete in the global quantum race, where Europe has often trailed behind the US and China. “Quantum technology holds transformative potential, and Denmark is committed to leading this revolution,” said Morten Bødskov, Denmark’s business minister. The project aims to strengthen the country’s position in fields like drug discovery, climate modeling, and advanced simulations, where quantum computing could deliver unprecedented speed and precision.
Construction of Magne is slated to begin in late 2025, with operations expected to start by 2026 or 2027. The QuNorth initiative is currently recruiting a CEO and plans to assemble a core team of around 10 specialists. The quantum computer will be based in Copenhagen and remain entirely Danish-owned, with equal stakes held by EIFO and the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
This partnership underscores Denmark’s commitment to innovation, positioning the country as a serious contender in the next era of computing. With Magne, Europe may finally gain a foothold in the high-stakes quantum race.
(Source: The Next Web)