🌐 Just returned from two workshops, the 86th and 87th HPC User Forums at Barcelona Supercomputing Center and at HLRS - High-Performance Computing Center Stuttgart, where discussions on the evolving landscape of #HPC, #AI, and #QuantumComputing offered valuable insights.
1. Transforming HPC Capabilities:
Across both forums, there was a strong focus on enhancing HPC infrastructure to meet complex computational demands. Projects like Destination Earth which aims to create a digital twin of Earth for environmental modeling, and advancements in weather prediction at #ECMWF highlight the practical impact of these transformations.
2. HPC-Quantum Computing Integration:
The integration of quantum and classical computing was a major theme, particularly in discussions at BSC. As Europe moves to expand quantum capabilities, BSC is fully committed to superconducting qubits, acquiring a system with 5 qubits (upgradable to 30) and planning to purchase an additional system through the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) program. My own presentations showcased QuEra Computing Inc. neutral-atom systems, which generated significant interest due to their technical advantages and recent commercial successes. Bob Sorensen reiterated his prediction that quantum computing could offer substantial business value within the next 2-4 years across a range of industries.
3. Precision Partnerships Driving Innovation:
It was inspiring to learn about focused collaborations at #BSC and #HLRS, which are developing high-impact solutions in fields like natural language processing, edge computing, and healthcare. Similarly, #HLRS is supporting both large companies and SMEs by providing HPC resources and expertise in simulation, AI, and visualization. These partnerships are crucial in bridging HPC advancements with real-world needs. On this, I had the chance to attend a CAVE demo at #HLRS—an impressive tool for industries ranging from automotive, where it visualizes CFD simulation results, to urban planning, allowing architects to model pollution and environmental factors in cities.
4. Future-Focused HPC Development:
As tech giants in the US invest in large, AI-focused centers powered by nuclear energy, European HPC experts are exploring a different route. Bob Sorensen emphasized an alternative, modular and energy-efficient approach, advocating for smaller, adaptable HPC centers tailored to specific AI applications.
Thank you to Bob Sorensen, Earl Joseph, and Rupak Biswas and many others for the engaging discussions throughout the week. Grateful for the knowledge shared and looking forward to driving innovation in the HPC and quantum ecosystem.
#HPC #QuantumComputing #Innovation #Supercomputing #AI #TechFuture #Barcelona #Stuttgart
