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Harnessing the quantum realm for NASA's future complex computing needs💻

  • Writer: Martian to be
    Martian to be
  • Jul 21, 2023
  • 3 min read


A “quantum” is the minimum amount of any physical thing needed to interact with something else, usually referring to the smallest units of energy or matter. The quantum world is a strange and beautiful part of nature invisible to us. Even if you could shrink down far past the size of an ant all the way to subatomic sizes, the very act of observing something at the quantum scale changes how it behaves. Despite how elusive it can be to observe, the mathematics behind how quantum mechanics operates is well understood and consistent, even if we don’t understand why.


NASA's Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley is the heart of the agency's advanced computing efforts, including its exploration and research of quantum computing. Ames leverages its location in the heart of Silicon Valley to forge partnerships with private industry as well. Using these collaborations, the NASA Advanced Supercomputing facility's resources, and expertise in quantum computing, Ames works to evaluate the potential of quantum computing for NASA missions.


Quantum computing is a rapidly developing field with the potential to revolutionize many industries, including space exploration. Quantum computers are able to solve problems that are intractable for classical computers, which could lead to significant advances in space missions.


One of the most promising applications of quantum computing for space exploration is in the field of navigation. Quantum computers could be used to develop new navigation systems that are more accurate and reliable than current systems. This would be especially beneficial for long-duration space missions, where even small errors in navigation can have a big impact.


Another potential application of quantum computing for space exploration is in the field of communication. Quantum computers could be used to develop new communication systems that are more secure and reliable than current systems. This would be especially important for missions that involve sensitive data, such as those involving national security.


In addition to navigation and communication, quantum computing could also be used to improve a wide range of other aspects of space exploration, such as:


🟣Scientific research


Quantum computers could be used to analyze large amounts of data from space telescopes and other scientific instruments. This could lead to new discoveries about the universe and its origins.


Quantum computing could be used to predict astronaut actions and is still in its early stages of development, and it is not yet clear how feasible it would be to use quantum computers to predict astronaut actions. However, as quantum computers become more powerful and sophisticated, it is likely that this will become a more viable option.


🟣Propulsion


Quantum computers could be used to develop new propulsion systems that are more efficient and powerful. This could make it possible to travel to distant destinations in space more quickly and easily.


🟣Materials science


Quantum computers could be used to design new materials with unique properties that are ideal for use in space. This could lead to the development of new spacecraft, habitats, and other equipment that is better suited for the harsh environment of space.


The potential of quantum computing for space exploration is vast. As quantum computers continue to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of this technology in the years to come.


Quantum computing is a powerful new technology with the potential to revolutionize many industries, including space exploration. The applications of quantum computing for space exploration are still being explored, but the potential benefits are great. Quantum computers could be used to develop new navigation systems, communication systems, and scientific instruments that are more accurate, reliable, and secure. This could lead to significant advances in space exploration and make it possible to explore new destinations in space that were previously inaccessible.


🌐References


1️⃣Quantum Computing in Space Science, by Suyash Chandrakar (2021)


2️⃣The Impact of Space Exploration on Our Understanding of the Potential for Space-Based Quantum Computing, by Ts2 Space (2022)


3️⃣Quantum Computing for Space Exploration: A Review, by M.A. Nielsen et al. (2022)


4️⃣Quantum Computing for Astronaut Training, by NASA (2022)


5️⃣Using Quantum Computing to Improve Space Exploration, by IBM (2021)


6️⃣How Quantum Computing Could Revolutionize Space Exploration, by Forbes (2022)


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