Planqc builds its technology on the research and technology development of the Munich Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) At the heart of the project is the optical lattice technology developed in the state capital. This technology allows thousands of atoms to be trapped in a crystal of light formed by a single laser beam. Quantum information is stored in the electronic states of strontium atoms. Planqc sees this combination of quantum technologies as the fastest way to scale to thousands of qubits with superior gate quality, a prerequisite for an industry-relevant quantum advantage.
The mission that the startup founded in Garching in April 2022 The project, which has now been awarded by DLR, involves the development of a digital hardware and software platform for quantum computing based on neutral atoms. It is intended to be scalable and capable of demonstrating quantum algorithms for real-world problems. The system is to be integrated into the DLR's quantum computing stack as part of the DLR Quantum Computing Initiative (DLR QCI).
“In order for the neutral atoms to become qubits, they must first be trapped and held by laser beams in a vacuum,”
says Robert Axmann, head of QCI. The atoms are then arranged in a regular pattern, similar to an egg carton, and can be manipulated with lasers. This creates individual qubits.
"To allow two qubits to interact, the atoms are placed in so-called Rydberg states. Quantum computers cannot function without interaction or entanglement between qubits."
Important milestone for Planqc
The contract is valued at €29 million. Planqc is collaborating with Menlo Systems and ParityQC, which are providing critical components such as the laser system, as well as the software and architecture. This is considered the first customer order for a digital quantum computer based on neutral atoms in Europe.
Alexander Glätzle, CEO and co-founder of Planqc, says:
"We are very proud that DLR is relying on Planqc, a technology leader in the field of neutral atoms, to build a quantum computer. This contract is an important milestone in our commercialization and growth strategy, which envisages expansion into other key industries and the development of global markets as the next step."
Sebastian Blatt, CTO and co-founder of Planqc, adds:
"We are not only delighted to install the first quantum computer based on neutral atoms at DLR, but also want to work closely with DLR experts to run quantum algorithms on it that will bring real added value to DLR's many application areas."
To boost joint development and utilize synergies with DLR, Planqc will be provided with its own laboratory and office space in the DLR Innovation Center in Ulm. Karla Loida, project manager at QCI, says:
"Diversity is an important feature of the DLR Quantum Computing Initiative. The QCI pursues different technological approaches to explore their respective advantages and disadvantages. With this project, we are expanding our quantum computing portfolio at the Ulm site with another promising technology."
