During an unusual sight, King Frederik and Queen Mary suited up in protective gear yesterday to dive into the burgeoning world of quantum technology during a visit to a Norwegian laboratory. Alongside the Norwegian crown prince couple, dressed in light blue DNA suits and white shoe covers, they visited the Micro- and Nanotechnology Laboratory at the University of Oslo. This laboratory, open to students, researchers, industry, and startups, served as the backdrop for an in-depth tour with a special focus on quantum technology. This research area, which was the main theme of the Danish and Norwegian royal couples’ state visit, is known for its potential to radically change our approach to everything from climate change and medicine to cybersecurity.
Quantum technology, an advanced mathematical approach to computer design, is expected to perform extremely complex calculations that are not possible with current technology. Researchers at the university hope that this technology can help address some of the world’s most pressing issues, including the climate crisis, by offering new ways to simulate and understand environmental processes. The visit not only highlighted the royal families’ interest in scientific research but also underscored the importance of international collaboration in scientific advances.