Professor Hensinger atop the pop-up lab at Spitalfields Market

Members of the public have been learning about quantum physics today as part of an innovative pop-up lab being run by the University of Sussex at Spitalfields Market, London.

The lab, which will be in the capital just for a day, has been created to educate the public about a new quantum computer being developed by scientists at the university.

Showcasing this ground-breaking work being developed by Professor Winfried Hensinger and his team of physicists at the University, the installation has seen the public step into a virtual quantum computer prototype.

Once inside they have been able to see the four key elements that make up this incredible machine – the most powerful computer in the world.

They have also had the chance to meet Professor Hensinger, the scientist behind the world’s first ever blueprint to construct a large-scale quantum computer, which was announced earlier this year.

Located in such a prime position on a busy weekday, the installation has seen members of the public come and explore the installation. Visitors have included a large number of year 12 students from Morpeth School, Tower Hamlets, accompanied by our Widening Participation team and Sussex student ambassadors.

Ex-England cricket captain, Michael Vaughan, also made a fleeting appearance and showed a keen interest in the lab – even posing for a photo with Professor Hensinger.

The lab will now be taken away and put to rest until it is moved to the University of Sussex, where it will be unveiled to the campus community this September.