BBC Inside Science - Is quantum computing having its moment?

Download Is quantum computing having its moment?

In a bid to invest in the future of computing and keep emerging quantum companies on their shores, the UK government has announced a £2 billion ‘Quantum Leap’ fund. Tom Whipple heads to ORCA Computing in London to find out exactly how close we are to realising that quantum future and the industries that may be revolutionized in the process. After Iranian missiles have hit a key helium production plant in Qatar, stability of the global supplies of the element have been called into question. Dr Rebecca Ingle from University College London clues us in on just how much of the world relies on Helium and why it is the irreplicable “cryogenic king” of the elements. Plus, can potatoes grow on the moon? And what can pythons tell us about weight loss? Reporter Gareth Mitchell joins Tom for their pick of this week's science news.

Presenter: Tom Whipple Producer: Alex Mansfield and Katie Tomsett Production co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth Editor: Martin Smith

Published on Thursday, 19th March 2026.

Available Podcasts from BBC Inside Science

Subscribe to BBC Inside Science

We are not the BBC, we only list available podcasts. To find out more about the programme including episodes available on BBC iPlayer, go to the BBC Inside Science webpage.