A Scottish university is preparing to welcome a groundbreaking light source as part of the European Quantum Light Tour. The tour, spanning 12 countries in Europe, aims to revolutionize the fields of computing and cybersecurity.
Heriot-Watt University will be the host of the QuanTour, which is set to arrive on Monday in anticipation of the Unesco International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. The quantum light source, powered by a “quantum dot”, produces individual particles of light known as photons. Scientists can study these photons on a microscopic level to enhance applications in cybersecurity.
Originally developed at Technische Universität Berlin, the quantum light source is making its way to Edinburgh from Cork before heading to the Netherlands. Stops on the tour include cities like Madrid, Paris, Rome, and Stockholm.
The compact structure, made of semiconductor materials typically found in mobile phones, has been miniaturized to a few nanometres. With a nanometre being one billionth of a metre, the potential for this technology is immense.
Professor Brian Gerardot, who oversees one of the physics labs at Heriot-Watt, emphasizes the importance of connecting with the research community through this opportunity. He highlights the collaborative effort behind the development of the quantum light source in various laboratories.
Research student Frederik Brooke Barnes explains the significance of using single photons to encrypt data, making communication virtually unhackable. By leveraging the laws of physics, the transmission of information becomes secure and immune to eavesdropping.
During the QuanTour, the Scottish team will analyze and share data on the characteristics of the produced photons with other participating quantum teams. To mark 100 years since the inception of quantum mechanics, the chosen year for this initiative is 2025.
In addition to the QuanTour, a single photon workshop will be held at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre from November 18 to 22. This workshop will showcase the latest advancements in quantum technology, offering a glimpse into the future of computing and cybersecurity.
