The French-German consortium Quandela and attocube systems GmbH has successfully delivered Lucy, a 12-qubit photonic quantum computer, to the Très Grand Centre de Calcul (TGCC) at CEA in France. Procured by the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking under the EuroQCS-France initiative, Lucy marks a major milestone in Europe’s quantum computing roadmap.
Lucy installed at TGCC at CEA in France. Image Credit: CEA CADAM
Lucy is the most powerful photonic quantum computer ever deployed. Integrated with the Joliot-Curie supercomputer, it will enable hybrid HPC quantum workflows for research and industry. Early application areas include energy optimization, chemistry, machine learning, and logistics.
The system was assembled in just twelve months, showcasing European technological sovereignty:
- Quantum devices manufactured by Quandela in France
- Cryogenic modules engineered by attocube near Munich
- Final integration at Quandela’s facility in Massy
With 80 % of components sourced in Europe, Lucy demonstrates the strength of crossborder collaboration.
“Lucy is a milestone for Europe’s quantum ecosystem. By deploying a photonic quantum computer at TGCC, we provide researchers and industry with a powerful tool to explore real-world applications and strengthen Europe’s leadership in quantum technologies.” – Niccolo Somaschi (CEO, Quandela)
“We are proud to contribute our cryogenic expertise to Lucy, enabling stable operation of photonic qubits at scale. This project exemplifies how European innovation can deliver world-class quantum technologies and accelerate the transition to hybrid computing.” – Dr. Michael Schweitzer (CEO, attocube systems GmbH)
Lucy will enter full operation in early 2026, with remote access and training programs already available to prepare European researchers and companies for this new capability.