Visit the Quantum Mile: a journey through quantum physics research in Donostia

This week saw the inauguration of the Quantum Mile, a scientific and technological route that takes in the most important centers dedicated to quantum research in the Ibaeta hub, one of the most active in Europe.

The route offers two complementary ways to explore it:

• Walking route: a signposted walk with seven informative infographics installed at the entrance to the buildings that house the main research centers and faculties involved.

• Interactive virtual tour: a 360-degree digital tour that immerses visitors in the laboratories and research spaces, showing in detail the scientific work, technological equipment, and capabilities of each group.

Visit the Quantum Mile

The seven centers that make up the Quantum Mile are: Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC), Materials Physics Center (CFM), CIC nanoGUNE, Tecnun (University of Navarra), the EHU's Computer Science and Chemistry Faculties, and the new Ikerbasque building, headquarters of the Basque Quantum alliance.

The presentation took place in the new Ikerbasque building, which houses the IBM Quantum System Two quantum computer, inaugurated on October 14. The event was attended by the Minister of Science, Universities, and Innovation, Juan Ignacio Pérez Iglesias; the Vice-Rector of the Gipuzkoa Campus of the University of the Basque Country, Juana Goizueta; and the Director of Basque Quantum, Javier Aizpurua.

The infographics, designed by scientific illustrators, are intended for a general audience, combining scientific rigor with accessible and visually appealing language. They are presented in Basque, Spanish, and English, and offer information about each center, its work in quantum physics, and key concepts in this discipline.

The virtual platform uses Smart Map technology to display high-resolution digital images of laboratories and recreations of future scientific spaces. This immersive experience, available in three languages, provides an understanding of the work and potential of the different research groups, with explanations in text and audio, and interactive content.

Highlights of the virtual Quantum Mile include the IBM Quantum System Two quantum computer, the Hyperion supercomputer at the DIPC, and laboratories specializing in nanotechnology, microscopy, and quantum algorithms, among others.

Access to the virtual tour is possible via QR codes installed on the physical totems along the route or via the Basque Quantum website. The Quantum Mile is presented as an educational and informative tool, accessible to all audiences, which highlights and recognizes the work of Basque scientists in the field of quantum sciences and technologies.