Quantum computers — a futuristic vision of ultra-fast processors powered by particle physics — sound almost like science fiction.
Current models, which can fill entire rooms, sometime rely on lasers and are often cooled to the temperature of outer space. Instead of using the binary system of 1’s and 0’s, quantum systems use atomic particles, or “qubits” (pronounced “Q-bits”), that can function as 1’s, 0’s, or both.
In theory, quantum computing could be better and faster than traditional computers at solving problems with many rapidly changing variables — such as finding the fastest or cheapest way to schedule flights at an airport or maximizing profit in a stock portfolio.
Quantum computing is years — maybe decades — from widespread commercial viability, scientists say. Still, the concept is attracting attention and investments from large tech companies — such as Google, IBM, Hitachi and Lockheed Martin — that are eager to harness quantum computing’s potential.
Lockheed Martin are not the kind of folks that make bad bets. To read more, click here.