Scientists operate a quantum computer in space for the first time

Researchers at the University of Vienna became the first to run a quantum computer in orbit, launched on a Falcon 9 in June 2025. Only three of six photon detectors survived the trip and laser output dropped from 20 mW to 4 mW, but photons in the circuit proved indistinguishable at 32.5 °C, matching Earth results.

• Quantum computer reached orbit aboard a Falcon 9 in June 2025
• Only 3 of 6 silicon SPAD photon detectors survived launch
• Laser output fell from 20 mW to 4 mW as adhesive degraded in vacuum
• Measurements were taken during 30-minute passes in Earth's shadow