The successful launch of the world's first quantum-enabled satellite “Mozi” marks a new era of Chinese space science in which China leads the world in wide-area quantum communication technology. As the chief scientist of the project, Pan Jianwei, Academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Professor of University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) lectured on “New Quantum Revolution: From Experimental Tests of Quantum Mechanics to Quantum Communication Technology” at Yongman Theatre on March 13. Liu Zhongfan, Standing Committee Member of the 13th CPPCC, Wang Yunpeng, Vice President of Beihang University and many other distinguished politicians and scholars were present. The lecture was hosted by Yao Yangping, Director of Beihang Library and Dean of Shijia College.
Pan addressing the audience on the stage
In his speech, Wang Yunpeng stressed the importance of science and technology in economic development and social progress by quoting what President Xi Jinping said, “The impact of science and technology on a country's future and the people's wellbeing has never been so profound as today.”
During the lecture, Academician Pan explained how quantum mechanics brought about the second scientific revolution and boosted new industry transformation by introducing national strategic overviews for quantum information science proposed by different countries. He also presented previous achievements and the latest development in China’s long-distance quantum communications. As for the future of quantum physics, Pan Jianwei believed that a global quantum communication network based on satellites and fiber optic networks was expected to be built to ensure the country’s information security. “It can be predicted that a second quantum revolution led by quantum communication is bound to push forward the advancement of human civilization. It is also an opportunity for China to prove itself as a leader rather than a follower in the era of information technology.” His splendid speech received thunderous applause from the audience.
Academician Pan giving the lecture
In the panel discussion session, Wang Ziteng, a student from Shijia college had in-depth talks with Academician Pan on how to conduct scientific research on the stage. At the end of the discourse, Wang Yunpeng awarded Pan Jianwei with the certificate of honor for delivering a lecture as part of the Beihang Lecture Program.
The panel discussion session
Wang Yunpeng awarded Pan Jianwei with the certificate
The auditorium was packed with more than 500 students and faculty members. The audience spoke highly of the lecture and considered it as a rewarding and inspiring experience.
The audience
Pan Jianwei is a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Austrian Academy of Sciences and the World Academy of Sciences. He also serves as Director of Innovation Center for Quantum Information and Quantum Physics and Chief Scientist of the world's first quantum satellite project. As a pioneer and leading scientist in quantum science, he specializes in quantum optics, quantum information and experimental testing of basic principles in quantum mechanics.
Pan contributes greatly to the quantum control. In particular, his innovative achievements in the field of quantum make experimental quantum information science one of the fastest-growing branches of physics. He has received numerous prizes and titles like Fresnel Prize, Beller Lectureship, International Quantum Communication Award, Willis E. Lamb Award, the Newcomb Cleveland Prize, and the first prize in China's State Natural Science Award.
Group photo of guests and leaders
Reported by Shao Yinghua
Photographed by Lu Shujun
Reviewed by Ma Rui
Edited by Jia Aiping
Translated by Xiong Ting
