Deep beneath the Earth's surface in Sudbury, Ontario, SNOLAB—renowned for its contributions to neutrino and dark matter research—is now pioneering efforts in quantum computing. Collaborating with the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo and Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden, SNOLAB is investigating how cosmic radiation affects quantum bits, or qubits, which are fundamental to quantum computing.

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Exploring Qubit Decoherence Underground

Quantum computers promise unprecedented computational power, but they face a significant hurdle: qubit decoherence. This phenomenon, where qubits lose their quantum state, can be exacerbated by environmental factors like cosmic rays. Recent studies have shown that high-energy particles can cause correlated errors across multiple qubits, challenging the assumption that such errors are independent and highlighting the need for more robust error correction methods.

To address this, the collaborative research project titled “Advanced Characterization and Mitigation of Qubit Decoherence in a Deep Underground Environment” aims to study qubit behavior in SNOLAB's unique setting. Located two kilometers underground in Vale's Creighton mine, SNOLAB offers the world's deepest cleanroom with the lowest muon flux, providing an environment virtually free from cosmic radiation.

The Role of the CUTE Facility

Central to this research is SNOLAB's Cryogenic Underground Test Facility (CUTE), designed for ultra-sensitive experiments requiring minimal background interference. Superconducting qubits, fabricated at Chalmers University, will undergo testing both above ground and within CUTE's cryogenically cooled environment. This comparative approach will help researchers understand the extent to which cosmic radiation impacts qubit stability and performance.

Advancing Canada's Quantum Strategy

SNOLAB's foray into quantum computing aligns with Canada's broader quantum strategy, emphasizing the development and commercialization of quantum technologies. By leveraging its unique infrastructure and expertise, SNOLAB is not only contributing to fundamental research but also positioning itself as a key player in the emerging quantum technology landscape.

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Looking Ahead

As quantum computing continues to evolve, understanding and mitigating factors like qubit decoherence become increasingly critical. SNOLAB's innovative research offers valuable insights into creating more stable and reliable quantum systems, bringing us closer to realizing the full potential of quantum computing.