Microsoft gives DARPA hands-on access to quantum system at new Maryland site

Microsoft opened a research center in Maryland with the University of Maryland and industry partners, where DARPA will get direct, on-site access to a quantum system built on Microsoft's Majorana 2 chip. DARPA previously evaluated Microsoft's hardware remotely; the goal is to judge whether quantum computation can be economically feasible by 2033. Microsoft plans commercial quantum systems by 2029.

• Center is located in the University of Maryland's Discovery District near Washington, D.C.
• DARPA gets physical access to a system using the Majorana 2 chip for the first time
• DARPA previously tested Microsoft's machines remotely from Redmond and Europe
• Microsoft aims to have commercial quantum systems ready by 2029