Quantum Mile: a journey through quantum physics research in Donostia
Starting today, Donostia has a scientific-technological route that can be explored on foot or virtually. This outreach initiative, promoted by the Basque Government and involving CIC nanoGUNE along with six other centers, highlights and recognizes the Basque scientific leadership in quantum science and technologies.
The Department of Science, Universities, and Innovation has presented the Quantum Mile, a scientific-technological route that allows citizens to get closer to the work carried out by the scientific community in the field of quantum physics, to generate cutting-edge knowledge and develop technologies that will transform the future, ranging from quantum computing to sensor technologies and numerous other applications.
The seven centers that make up the Quantum Mile are: Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC), Materials Physics Center (CFM), CIC nanoGUNE, Tecnun (University of Navarra), the Faculties of Computer Science and Chemistry of EHU, and the new Ikerbasque building, headquarters of the Basque Quantum alliance.
The official presentation of the Quantum Mile took place this morning in Donostia, in the new Ikerbasque building, which houses the IBM Quantum System Two quantum computer, inaugurated on October 14. The event was attended by the Minister of Science, Universities, and Innovation, Juan Ignacio Pérez Iglesias; the Vice-Rector of the Gipuzkoa Campus of EHU, Juana Goizueta; and the director of Basque Quantum, Javier Aizpurua, as well as representatives of the research centers and faculties that make up the proposal.
On foot or with a click
This scientific-technological route is located in Ibaeta, one of the most active poles in Europe in quantum research, and offers two complementary ways to explore it:
On foot: a signposted walk with seven informative infographics installed at the entrance of the buildings that house the main research centers and faculties involved.
Interactive virtual visit: a 360-degree digital tour that immerses visitors in the laboratories and research spaces, showing in detail the scientific work, technological equipment, and capabilities of each group.
Access to the virtual visit is possible through the website https://quantummile.basquequantum.eus/ or through the QR codes installed on the physical totems of the route.
Virtual visit to nanoGUNE
Among the contents included in the virtual visit of the Quantum Mile are three unique nanoGUNE laboratories:
The Cleanroom: an ultra-controlled work environment where materials are manufactured and manipulated at the nanometric scale.
A Quantum Detection laboratory equipped with microscopy techniques to study quantum phenomena on the surface of materials.
A Quantum Hardware laboratory - currently under construction - where we will develop hardware for quantum computing based on semiconductor materials such as silicon.