Cryogenic technologies are critical components for many quantum systems, keeping quantum devices close to absolute zero temperature, thereby reducing noise and errors. QED-C was established to identify gaps in enabling technologies and suggest strategies for filling those gaps. QED-C members previously identified cryogenics technology as a potential barrier in the development of quantum-based systems for computing, sensing, and communications.
To address the identified cryogenic technology gaps, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) sponsored the R&D program with co-funding by the companies involved, which competitively awarded proposals from four QED-C members a combined $877,000 in 2022. Those members, FormFactor, Northrop Grumman, Quantum Opus and Triton Systems, all reported advancements, including research that underpinned a new commercial product.