The mini quantum computer was developed by an international team from the University of Vienna. Yesterday, June 23, it was sent into space aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
The mini quantum computer was developed by an international team from the University of Vienna. Yesterday, June 23, it was sent into space aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
The launch was part of the SpaceX Transporter 14 mission, which carried 70 payloads, including microsatellites, cubesats, and capsules for returning to orbit, Interesting Engineering writes .
The computer will operate at an altitude of about 550 km above the planet. It can withstand the extreme temperature changes, radiation and vibrations of space travel.
The 12 team members spent four weeks assembling the satellite payload in the clean room of the German Aerospace Center's Competence Center for the Responsive Space Cluster in Trawen. They completed the flight model in just 11 working days.
The satellite is expected to begin transmitting results about a week after entering orbit.
The system is highly adaptable and can be configured for future space missions.
“In addition, this mission allows us to test the performance and durability of quantum equipment in extreme conditions — we can investigate how long it remains functional in harsh space conditions,” explained team leader Philippe Walter.
The team sees a wide range of potential applications, including climate monitoring, communications, and even fundamental quantum research.
"Our results could contribute to the further development of quantum hardware for commercial and scientific applications, for example in the areas of Earth observation, climate research and communications," added Walter.
