FAMU opens quantum computing lab reaching temperatures colder than outer space, backed by NSF grants

COLLEGE TOWN, FL (WTXL) — Two new dilution refrigerators at FAMU's Center for Plasma Science and Technology give researchers and students tools to study quantum computing at temperatures colder than outer space.

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FAMU opens quantum computing lab reaching temperatures colder than outer space, backed by NSF grants

Florida A&M University has launched a new quantum research lab, installing two dilution refrigerators inside its Center for Plasma Science and Technology to give researchers and students the tools to study quantum computing and quantum materials at temperatures colder than outer space.

"We're going to be looking in this lab at quantum computing and quantum materials. This is one of the most exciting fields in the world today," Charles Weatherford, Vice President for Research at Florida A&M University, said.

The machines can reach temperatures as low as 8 milliKelvin — approximately minus 273.2 degrees Celsius — colder than the temperature of outer space.

"Oh, it's really cold. This guy can go down to about 8 milliKelvin. 8 milliKelvin is minus 273.2 degree Celsius. Extremely, extremely low. It's even lower than the temperature out of space," Wei Guo, a Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering professor, said.