Atoms inside quantum computers can sometimes disappear without warning, disrupting calculations and corrupting data. This issue, known as atom loss, has been a major challenge in quantum computing — until now.
For the first time, researchers from Sandia National Laboratories and the University of New Mexico have developed a practical method to detect these “leakage errors” in neutral-atom quantum computers. Their breakthrough removes a key obstacle in the field, bringing scientists closer to unlocking the full potential of quantum technology. Many experts believe these advanced computers could reveal insights about the universe that are beyond the reach of current systems.
“We can now detect the loss of an atom without disturbing its quantum state,” said Yuan-Yu Jau, Sandia atomic physicist and principal investigator of the experiment team.
The team’s method, detailed in a recent paper in PRX Quantum, achieved 93.4% accuracy in detecting lost atoms. By identifying and flagging these errors, researchers can take steps to correct them, improving the stability of quantum computers.
This research was supported by Sandia’s Laboratory Directed Research and Development program.
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