Quantum computers will require thousands of qubits to tackle complex problems in physics and chemistry. To compensate for fragile qubits, researchers are building quantum computers with redundant qubits to correct errors. A recent breakthrough by Caltech physicists has created the largest qubit array ever assembled: 6,100 neutral-atom qubits trapped in a grid using lasers.
This achievement marks a significant step towards scaling up quantum computers. The team used optical tweezers to trap thousands of individual cesium atoms in a vacuum chamber and demonstrated that the larger scale did not compromise accuracy. They maintained superposition for nearly 10 times longer than previous arrays, with an accuracy of 99.98 percent.
The team also showed that they could move the atoms hundreds of micrometers across the array while maintaining superposition. This ability enables efficient error correction compared to traditional platforms like superconducting qubits.
The next milestone is implementing quantum error correction at a large scale. Neutral atoms are a strong candidate for this, and the researchers plan to link the qubits together in a state of entanglement, which will allow them to carry out full quantum computations.
Source: https://www.caltech.edu/about/news/caltech-team-sets-record-with-6100-qubit-array