FESTIVAL WARM UP - Quantum to Cosmos: A Pint of the Universe

Life as it emerged on Earth around 4-billion years ago is based on the element Carbon, probably because carbon has the richest chemistry: it can bond to itself and to other atoms, creating a large variety of molecules, such as sugars, DNA and lipids. But how can a carbon atom end up on a planet? Can carbon-containing molecules be formed directly in space and delivered there? In this talk we follow the journey of cosmic carbon.

Quantum technology promises significant advancements, but it also poses substantial risks, particularly in the realm of cryptography. As the potential risks and consequences of cybersecurity breaches by future quantum computers are devastating, governments and organisations are already preparing for a transition to quantum-safe cryptography. However, as the development of other technologies illustrates, after an initial period of excitement, overhyped expectations can trigger disappointment and even withdrawal of resources, invoking technology winters that freeze further advancements.