Chicago Airport Exhibit Brings Quantum Computing to Life

Chicago is rapidly establishing itself as a center for quantum computing innovation, with significant investments from the state of Illinois and technology firms aimed at developing the world’s first commercially viable quantum computer. In an effort to educate the public about this cutting-edge technology, a new exhibit at O’Hare International Airport aims to make quantum computing more tangible for travelers.

Located in Terminal 1, the exhibit features a model that visually represents the interior of a quantum computer. The design resembles a large golden chandelier with four tiers, intricate copper wiring, and a chip at the base. Adjacent to the model, a screen provides a video explanation of the science behind quantum computing. Open for at least one year, the exhibit is a collaboration between the STAGE Center at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering and IBM.

Nancy Kawalek, director of the STAGE Center, emphasized the exhibit’s goal of demystifying quantum computing for the general public. “I don’t want people to get sort of frightened off by it, not understanding it,” she said. “When you learn about quantum, it sounds like magic … but it’s not magic. It really works, and it’s been proven scientifically.”

Historically, quantum computing has been viewed as a theoretical concept based on quantum mechanics. However, as companies like IBM develop practical applications, the technology is transitioning from laboratories to mainstream data centers.

Avery Linder, a former University of Chicago student who contributed to the exhibit, used the analogy of a coin flip to explain the unique capabilities of quantum computers. “With quantum, it’s like if you were to flip a coin and it was midair, you could not tell me if it was heads or tails … it’s in two states of existence at once,” Linder explained. This characteristic enables quantum computers to process information in ways that traditional computers, which operate solely with binary data, cannot.

Looking ahead, quantum computers could revolutionize various fields, including healthcare and cybersecurity. Their ability to manage complexity may lead to breakthroughs such as detecting diseases at the cellular level or enhancing the security of financial transactions.

Linder, who graduated with a degree in May 2025 and now works on STAC12— a start-up focusing on growing diamonds for quantum devices—hopes the exhibit will make quantum computing accessible to a broader audience. “It seems like something you can’t possibly understand unless you take several semesters of math and physics,” she noted. “But it’s actually very accessible if explained the right way.”

Hanhee Paik, director of quantum algorithms centers at IBM, described the innovative design of the exhibited quantum computer. The tiered structure functions similarly to a refrigerator, employing copper wiring to cool each level and protect the chip from thermal noise that could disrupt data processing. “Our quantum processors are … three times colder than outer space to help remove any noise that could interfere with the computation,” Paik stated.

The exhibit is hosted in O’Hare’s Terminal 1 by United Airlines and has received funding from the American Physical Society (APS), a scientific organization focused on advancing physics. The APS has recently supported several quantum computing initiatives, coinciding with the United Nations’ designation of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.

Kathryn Walters-Conte, head of program strategy and operations for the APS, expressed optimism regarding the exhibit’s impact. “I think people hear about quantum in pop culture and science fiction and are not sure if it’s a real thing,” she said after attending the exhibit’s unveiling. “But this display aims to spark interest and demonstrate that quantum computing is a tangible reality, complete with the equipment that physicists use.”

As Chicago continues to build its reputation in the quantum computing landscape, the exhibit at O’Hare International Airport serves as a vital link between advanced technology and public understanding, making the complex world of quantum computing more accessible and relatable to everyday travelers.