LUMI Q Launches VLQ Quantum Computer at IT4Innovations
Lumi Q
Europe Launches 24-Qubit Superconducting Quantum Computer VLQ in Czech Republic
At the IT4Innovations National Supercomputing Centre, the LUMI Q partnership opened the VLQ quantum computer, advancing European technological sovereignty. The European High-Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) constructed this powerful 24-qubit superconducting system as the second quantum computer in Europe.
At IT4Innovations' inauguration ceremony at VSB Technical University of Ostrava, Gustav Kalbe, EuroHPC JU Executive Director Anders Jensen, Czech government officials, university rectors, and representatives from IQM Quantum Computers and the LUMI Q consortium were in attendance.
According to Anders Jensen, “Europe is taking another significant step towards deploying a world-class European quantum computing ecosystem with VLQ.” It is enabling European users to explore previously unattainable solutions by combining supercomputers with cutting-edge quantum technology.
Quantum Future Pan-European Collaboration
The Czech Republic, the consortium's leader, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, and Sweden managed the VLQ system's purchase and operation.
The EUR 5 million project was jointly funded. These funds were split between the EuroHPC JU and the LUMI-Q consortium. Europe is working together to build a cutting-edge quantum computing infrastructure to assist research and innovation.
V—VSB Technical University of Ostrava, host.
The LUMI-Q Consortium
Quantum Computing
VLQ, pronounced like the Czech word “vlk,” meaning “wolf,” recognises the LUMI supercomputer, which inspired the LUMI Q partnership.
Tech specs and unique architecture
VLQ, invented by IQM Quantum Computers, has 24 superconducting qubits. VLQ's star-shaped architecture connects all qubits, distinguishing it from competitors. This innovative superconducting quantum computer design is a first by decreasing “swap” operations, improving quantum computation efficiency.
The star-shaped quantum processing unit architecture is also the cornerstone in IQM technology roadmap towards fault-tolerance, according to IQM Quantum Computers Co-CEO Mikko Välimäki. He said, “I think the system will be crucial in promoting scientific discoveries and further solidifying Europe’s position at the forefront of technological innovation.”
Operating the quantum computer requires keeping its qubits at 0.01 degrees above absolute zero (–273.14 °C), lower than space. A glittering, multi-tiered, 300 kg gold chandelier-like cryostat was utilised to do this. Brittle qubit quantum states can be destroyed by a small amount of heat. The semiconductor needs only a few kilowatts, but the quantum chip infrastructure uses more. This is far less than megawatt-powered supercomputers.
HPC/Future Application Integration
VLQ won't work alone. It is connected to the Ostrava Karolina supercomputer and the European HPC infrastructure. With this hybrid architecture of classical and quantum computers, researchers can solve previously unsolvable problems.
By 2025, government organisations, corporations, and educational institutions in Europe will adopt VLQ. Branislav Jansik, LUMI Q integration coordinator and IT4Innovations Director of Supercomputing Services, said the EuroHPC JU will make its capabilities available to all European users.
In several disciplines, the system will expedite research and innovation. Possible uses:
Quantum ML
Vaccine and drug development
Material redesign
Optimising transport and logistics
Modelling finance
Forecasting renewable energy performance
Security and defence apps
This inauguration is a turning point for Europe and sets the platform for future developments that will impact science, technology, and society.