World Quantum Day Celebrates the Potential of Quantum Technology

Brace for a deluge of all things quantum today as the third World Quantum Day takes place around the world. The date April 14, was selected because  4/14 is close to first three numbers of Planck’s constant: 4.1356677×10−15 eV⋅s, which is the fundamental constant governing quantum physics. Broadly-speaking, there is no central coordination; instead there is a wide variety of events conducted worldwide by governments, academia, and prominent laboratories.

This year, World Quantum Day has been subsumed as part of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) designated by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).

Here’s a quick excerpt from the official U.S quantum site (https://www.quantum.gov/iyq-2025/) describing why quantum science is being highlighted during the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology:

“Quantum mechanics is the science of atoms and particles–the building blocks of the world around us. Using quantum mechanics, scientist and engineers have created revolutionary technologies that impact our everyday lives. For example, the semiconductor chips in our smartphones and computers operate in part using quantum mechanics. LASERS, LED lights, and LED monitors were developed based on our understanding of quantum mechanics. The Global Position System (GPS) that helps us navigate the world relies on the quantum mechanics of ultra-precise atomic clocks.  Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners in hospitals use quantum mechanics. Future technologies such as quantum computers, quantum sensors, and quantum communication devices may offer new and disruptive applications as well. You are invited to be a part of the quantum revolution!”

While there is no official listing of events, many of the planned events are along with links to regional web sites and activities are included on the official IOQ site. Most activities are aimed at educating less technical audiences about the potential of quantum sciences. The video below featuring actor LeVar Burton — Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation — as well as test pilot and former NASA Astronaut Josh Cassada and other talk about quantum technology’s potential.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) also has posted a collection of resources.

Excerpt from NIST: “Throughout the year, we plan to highlight some of NIST’s most influential and important papers that helped advance the frontiers of quantum science research. Our first batch of papers highlights NIST’s research in basic quantum science, which has laid a foundation on which we continue to build as more discoveries are made, in turn leading to more technologies and lasting impacts on our quality of life. Papers highlighted include ones from as far back as 1957!”

Along with the official activities scattered around the globe you can expect a modest flood of announcements from quantum computing and sensor technology vendors touting new products and past achievements.

Link to World Quantum Day,

Link to International Year of Quantum Science and Technology website,