Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU), in partnership with Rosatom, has successfully demonstrated a 72-qubit neutral-atom quantum computer prototype. This experimental milestone marks the third Russian system to surpass the 70-qubit mark, joining recent ion-based and superconducting developments. The prototype, utilizing single neutral rubidium atoms (⁸⁷Rb) trapped in optical tweezers, serves as a critical validation step for Russia’s national quantum roadmap, which targets fault-tolerant systems of several hundred qubits by 2030.
The technical core of the demonstration is a novel three-zone register architecture designed to improve operational reliability and minimize crosstalk. The architecture divides the quantum register into functional segments: a Computing Zone for gate execution and two auxiliary zones for Storage and Readout. Currently, researchers have successfully utilized the computing and storage zones, allowing for the isolation of quantum states from active interference. During initial testing, the system achieved a two-qubit logical operation accuracy of 94%, establishing a performance baseline for future scalability.
This prototype demonstration fulfills a 2024 government mandate to scale neutral-atom platforms beyond the 50-qubit level. By reaching 72 qubits, MSU has narrowed the gap between domestic research and international benchmarks in atom-based scalability. While the current fidelity remains below the 99%+ threshold required for practical quantum advantage, the modular three-zone design is intended to facilitate the integration of mid-circuit measurements and error correction protocols in subsequent development phases.
Read the official report from TASS here.
January 4, 2025
