European supercomputer handed over to Merz's control
In a significant stride towards becoming the AI nation, Germany has unveiled the "Jupiter" data center, a state-of-the-art supercomputing facility located at Forschungszentrum Jülich near Aachen. This remarkable machine, built over a span of two years, consists of around 50 container modules on more than 2,300 square meters of floor space.
The Supercomputer Jupiter, now the fastest computer in Europe and the fourth fastest in the world, is a game-changer in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and scientific simulations. With its capabilities, it opens up new possibilities for AI models and scientific simulations, enabling breakthroughs in climate, energy, medicine, and materials research.
The construction of Jupiter cost a substantial 500 million euros, with the European Commission contributing 250 million euros and each of the science ministries of the federal and state governments contributing 125 million euros. This investment is a testament to Germany's commitment to leading the AI race, a competition that currently sees the USA and China in the forefront.
One of the primary goals of Jupiter is to improve climate and weather simulation to predict local extreme events such as heavy rain and severe thunderstorms. Additionally, it is intended for researching proteins, cells, and the human brain with the aim of developing new therapies more quickly.
Astrid Lambrecht, director of Forschungszentrum Jülich, stated that Jupiter shows the path to resource-saving computing. Indeed, the supercomputer is operated with green electricity, making it the most energy-efficient supercomputer in the world. This eco-friendly approach aligns with the 2020s, which Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz believes could be considered the AI decade of our time.
Europe and Germany still have opportunities to catch up in the AI race. However, with the unveiling of Jupiter, it is clear that Germany is making significant strides towards its goal. Merz, in his statement, emphasised that Jupiter is a part of the Joint Undertaking Pioneer for Innovative and Transformative Exascale Research (JUPITER), a project that aims to push the boundaries of what is possible in AI and scientific research.
The Supercomputer Jupiter, with its capabilities, is poised to revolutionise the field of AI and scientific research, paving the way for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.
