Quantum Firms to Research Materials for Single Photon Detection

Multiverse Computing, a developer of value-based quantum computing solutions, and Single Quantum, a provider of superconducting nanowire single photon detectors, launched an industrial materials science R&D project under a $1.4 million contract with the German Aerospace Center (DLR)’s Quantum Computing Initiative (DLR QCI).

Under the contract, Multiverse Computing and Single Quantum will use quantum simulation to improve the superconducting film that allows the hardware to detect photons. The quantum companies won funding through a competitive bidding process to use quantum simulation to improve the transmission capabilities of superconducting nanowire single photon detectors. These detectors are essential for quantum communications devices and more accurate than other types of photon detectors.

There are multiple use cases for single photon detectors ranging from quantum computing to deep-space communication and bio-imaging. DLR's exploration of these use cases aims to achieve quantum applications that outperform classical methods across transport, energy, and security.

Multiverse’s quantum algorithm experts will work with hardware engineers at Single Quantum to create an algorithm specifically designed for the DLR QCI’s quantum computers. Single Quantum specializes in fast and highly sensitive light sensors based on a superconducting nanowire single photon architecture. The company was among the first to manufacture and commercialize superconducting nanowire single photon detectors.

Launched in 2021, the objective of the DLR QCI is to develop and expand the agency’s quantum competencies and strengthen the quantum computing ecosystem. The Algorithms for Quantum Computer Development in Hardware-Software Codesign (ALQU) is one of many application projects within the DLR QCI.

The materials science research led by Multiverse Computing and Single Quantum will support two goals in the ALQU’s work: the efficient compilation of circuits on quantum hardware and the development of quantum algorithms for industrial use. Winning this project strengthens Multiverse Computing’s position in the country’s quantum computing ecosystem and builds on its previous work with other major German companies, including Bosch, ZF, BASF and others.