Quantum technology is becoming very important for both business and global power. In the last ten years, the technology has improved a lot. Denmark and the Nordic countries have done strong research in this field, but they may fall behind other countries.
The reason? They don’t yet have access to the latest and most powerful quantum computers, known as Level 2 quantum systems.
To fix this, Denmark’s investment fund (EIFO) and the Novo Nordisk Foundation are spending €80 million ($93 million) to start a new project called QuNorth. The goal of QuNorth is to bring the world’s most powerful commercial quantum computer to the Nordic region and make sure it’s used to help advance technology in the area.
Unveiling Magne
The computer will be named Magne, after the Norse god who is Thor’s son, known for his unassailable strength. Magne is gearing up to become the world’s most powerful commercial quantum computer and one of the first Level 2 quantum systems ever built. It will have 50 logical qubits over 1,200 physical qubits.
These advanced systems use something called logical qubits, which allow for much more reliable and complex calculations. With Magne, Denmark and the Nordic region will unlock new possibilities for research and business, helping them take a leading role in the global quantum race.
Magne will be a full-stack quantum computer, meaning it will have hardware that contains algorithms, software, operating system and control electronics apart from just qubits.
Atom Computing will build and deliver the hardware, while Microsoft will integrate its Azure software tailored to Atom Computing’s neutral atom technology.
When will the work commence?
The construction of Magne will start in late 2025 and be ready by early 2027. QuNorth will also hire a CEO, build a 10-person team, and create four research positions with Microsoft for this project. Owned by EIFO and the Novo Nordisk Foundation, both entities will invest approximately €40 million ($46 million) in the establishment of QuNorth.
“The team at Atom Computing is excited to deliver its cutting-edge technology into the hands of a broad range of users, as Atom’s hardware integrates advanced compute capabilities that enable deep technical research into novel logical qubit algorithms and quantum error correction,” said Dr. Ben Bloom, CEO at Atom Computing.
“On top of that, together with Microsoft, the system provides a full-stack solution that empowers quantum innovation and applications for academia and industry. We believe that together with Microsoft and QuNorth, the Danish and Nordic quantum ecosystems will take a global leadership position for years to come,” he stated, talking about the potential impact of their collaboration with Microsoft on this project.
QuNorth will present its commercial and academic program at a Nordic quantum event to be held in autumn 2025. Both Magne and QuNorth will be based in Copenhagen.