Annual-Report-2024 - Flipbook - Page 52
Quantum Physics – Separating Hope From Hype
Redefining Reality
Rainer Blatt is a world expert in quantum physics and was thus the perfect Scientific
Co-Chairperson for a meeting in which several sessions were dedicated to this hot topic.
A few weeks later, he shared his observations from the Meeting as well as his own
experience in the field and his expectations for the future.
A major theme during the Meeting was distinguishing
between hope and hype in quantum technology – why
is this timely and necessary?
After nearly a century of quantum physics, interest in
advanced quantum technologies has surged in the last
decade, driven by our ability to routinely create and
manipulate “quantum entanglement”, a phenomenon
arising from quantum superpositions across spatial distances. Entanglement forms the foundation of emerging
quantum communication technologies, sensors, simulations, and computers, which promise to revolutionize
fields like chemistry, material science, and computing by
solving previously unsolvable problems. Early demonstrations are promising, and significant investments are
being made to scale these technologies for industrial use.
While no fundamental barriers in physics exist, some
expectations are overly optimistic. A panel discussion
at this year’s Meeting highlighted that the timeline for
scalable quantum technology is often underestimated,
and further basic research is essential, particularly on
scalable platforms and more advanced quantum algorithms.
50 | Talking Physics That Matters
What were the most relevant messages from Lindau
regarding quantum physics?
A key focus of this year's Meeting was quantum physics,
including topics such as the generation and application of
ultrashort pulses and fundamental studies of entanglement, which form the foundation for emerging quantum
technologies. Quantum measurements play a crucial role
in defining and realizing fundamental constants. As a
result, quantum physics and its applications will remain
a highly relevant pillar for future advancements in both
industry and technology.
In which area do you think we will see significant breakthroughs in quantum technology in the next few years?
Quantum computing will see progress in error correction, scalability, and algorithms, unlocking applications
in cryptography, optimization, and possibly, drug discovery. Quantum communication will advance with
developments in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and
quantum networks, enhancing secure global communication. Quantum sensing will revolutionize fields like
navigation, medical diagnostics, and geophysics through
ultra-sensitive measurements. Quantum simulation
