SINGAPORE – A mannequin of an atomic clock is among the many highlights of a brand new exhibition at the Science Centre Singapore, which goals to deliver quantum science to the lots by making the sphere tangible and extra relatable.
Unlike peculiar clocks, atomic clocks preserve time higher by monitoring oscillations between the nucleus of an atom and the encircling electrons.
Atomic clocks are key to Global Positioning System navigation and the synchronisation of the web, and are earmarked to contribute to quantum science developments in Singapore.
National Research Foundation (NRF) chairman Heng Swee Keat stated quantum applied sciences resembling atomic clocks maintain the important thing to future advances in computing and communications.
“Recognising this potential, it is important for Singapore to position itself at the forefront of this revolution,” stated Mr Heng on Sept 30 at the opening of the brand new Quanta School exhibition.
The exhibition, which seeks to demystify quantum ideas and spotlight their relevance to every day life, was put collectively as 2025 was declared the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology by the United Nations.
The NRF, along with the National Quantum Office, A*Star and the National University of Singapore, amongst others, contributed to the displays.
Visitors at the brand new Quanta School exhibition at the Science Centre on Sept 30.
ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO
“Now, with this Quanta School exhibition, younger students will get a chance to start their quantum education early, and families can also better understand why this is an important area of science and technology for Singapore,” Mr Heng stated.
Since 2002, Singapore has dedicated a complete of $700 million to deepen nationwide capabilities in quantum analysis, and expertise improvement and trade collaboration on this space.
Mr Heng added that the Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT), which has been pivotal in advancing quantum science since 2007, labored with the Science Centre to design the displays in a fascinating and accessible approach.
“Through outreach and support for young researchers, CQT is inspiring the next generation to see quantum not just as a subject, but as a career path – strengthening Singapore’s position as a global hub for quantum innovation.”
During a tour of the exhibition, Mr Heng and different attendees additionally considered shows that help to clarify ideas resembling quantum superposition, which refers to how quantum objects like electrons can exist in a number of states at as soon as.
While conventional computer systems can retailer info solely as both 0s or 1s, quantum computer systems use superposition to signify and retailer info in a posh mixture of each concurrently – thereby giving it the power to resolve issues a lot quicker.
Ms Jenny Hogan, chair of the Singapore International Year of Quantum Workgroup, explaining to NRF chairman Heng Swee Keat about quantum key distribution and the atomic clock shows at the Quanta School exhibition.
ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO
The exhibition will run for a yr, and entry to it’s included within the value of a daily ticket to the centre.
Though quantum consultants would be the ones to ship the expertise to the lots, everybody can have to stay with it and its impression, stated the centre’s director of exhibitions Eugene Wambeck.
“Not all of us will become quantum experts, but I think it’s necessary for people to get a sense of where things are heading and the excitement in the field,” stated Mr Wambeck.
“Ultimately, when the public has information, they can understand certain developments made by the nation, why policies are made, and the usefulness of the technologies in our daily lives.”