The European High-Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) has made a significant leap in quantum computing by signing a procurement contract for the continent’s first quantum annealer. This groundbreaking system, known as MareNostrum-Ona, will be integrated into Spain’s MareNostrum 5 supercomputer and is slated for launch in 2025 with at least 10 qubits.
Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech Selected as Vendor
The quantum annealer will be supplied by Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech, a leading player in the quantum technology space. This innovative system will function as an analog quantum computer, utilizing the physical process of annealing—a method of heating and cooling materials to reduce their energy.
Project Cost and Funding
The total cost of the MareNostrum-Ona project is €8.5 million (approximately $8.9 million). Funding has been jointly provided by EuroHPC JU and the EuroQCS-Spain Consortium. The consortium comprises:
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC)
- Institute for High Energy Physics (Institut de Física d’Altes Energies, IFAE) in Spain
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) in Portugal
Availability for European Researchers
MareNostrum-Ona will be accessible to European users from various sectors, including academia, industry, and public institutions. EuroHPC JU emphasized that this system will enhance Europe’s quantum technology capabilities by providing advanced tools for research and innovation.
Supporting EuroHPC’s Strategic Goals
This quantum annealer aligns with the broader EuroHPC JU strategy to establish a robust supercomputing and quantum computing ecosystem across Europe. By adding MareNostrum-Ona to its portfolio, EuroHPC aims to diversify quantum computing platforms available to European researchers.
About EuroHPC JU
Established in 2018 and headquartered in Luxembourg, EuroHPC JU is a collaborative initiative involving the European Union, 35 European countries, and private partners. Its mission includes:
- Developing and deploying high-performance computing (HPC) and quantum computing systems
- Creating a secure and connected computing ecosystem
- Enhancing HPC skills for European science and industry
Previous Quantum Computing Investments
EuroHPC has consistently invested in advancing quantum computing infrastructure. In 2024, procurement contracts were signed for four quantum computers in Poland, Czechia, France, and Germany. Hosting agreements were also finalized for additional quantum systems in Luxembourg and the Netherlands.
The initiative further includes analog quantum simulators procured under the HPCQS (High-Performance Computer and Quantum Simulator) project. These simulators are integrated into high-performance systems such as the Joliot-Curie of GENCI in France and the JURECA modular supercomputer at Germany’s Jülich Supercomputing Centre.
Future of Quantum Computing in Europe
Europe’s commitment to advancing quantum technologies is evident in its continued investments. The MareNostrum-Ona project marks a significant milestone, showcasing the continent’s ambition to lead in quantum innovation while complementing existing supercomputing capabilities.
FAQs
What is a quantum annealer?
A quantum annealer is a type of analog quantum computer that uses the annealing process to solve optimization problems. It works by finding the lowest-energy configuration in a complex system, making it useful for specific computational tasks.
How does MareNostrum-Ona differ from traditional quantum computers?
MareNostrum-Ona is an analog quantum computer designed specifically for optimization problems, unlike digital quantum computers that rely on gate-based operations for a wider range of computations.
Who can access MareNostrum-Ona?
European researchers from academia, industry, and public institutions will have access to the system for advanced research and innovation.
Why is this project significant?
The MareNostrum-Ona project represents Europe’s first quantum annealer, signaling a major step in quantum computing capabilities and innovation for the continent.
What organizations are involved in this project?
The project is funded by EuroHPC JU and the EuroQCS-Spain Consortium, which includes the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, IFAE, and INL.
