Students from University of Applied Sciences Münster with a low-cost quantum experimental setup.

QuantumMiniLabs

The BMBF-funded QuantumMiniLabs joint project is aimed at a lay audience, particularly high school students. Here, ACP is working to establish a broadly usable open-source ecosystem to raise awareness of second-generation quantum technology.

Students from University of Applied Sciences Münster with a low-cost quantum experimental setup.

Image: University of Applied Sciences Münster

Motivation

Single-photon source for secure quantum communication.
Image: Tobias Vogl, ANU Canberra

Quantum technology and corresponding experimental environments are not accessible to the general population. For them, they remain something abstract and applications appear highly complicated and time-consuming. Even for students at universities and colleges, experiments with quantum systems are, if at all, only possible with expensive and complex laboratory setups in special laboratories. This means that an important and efficient part of learning, the practical examination of the effects, is eliminated.

Goals and approach

In order to be able to appeal to the general population, a widely used open-source ecosystem is being established as part of QuantumMiniLabs to raise awareness of second-generation quantum technology. In Jena, our Lichtwerkstatt Makerspace External linkwill be the key location to build the upcoming QuantumMiniLabs. Based on our own experiences, the project will not only provide an inexpensive, modular, scalable and repairable experimental environment, but will also hand it over to 100 learning locations in Germany in the first step and support it with student “quantum technology coaches”.

ACP associate Monika showing quantum experiments at the Hannover Messe 2024.
Image: David Zakoth (FSU Jena)

Innovation and perspectives

Thus, the QuantumMiniLabs will offer a cost-effective DIY environment for experiments with second-generation quantum systems. Using this learning environment, learners can experience the practical handling of quantum effects and become more aware and enthusiastic about the topic. In order to be able to meet the price requirements for a mass-market structure, the quantum system, which is stable at room temperature, is used in the form of nitrogen vacancy diamonds. The experimental environment should be spread so widely within the project that a critical mass of users is reached and the QuantumMiniLab can also be used, improved and expanded beyond the end of the project.