If we want to put together a functioning quantum computer, not having it break down every second while calculations are made would obviously be helpful. Now, scientists have described a new technique for recording quantum non-demolition measurements that shows a lot of promise.

In this case, the research involved mechanical quantum systems – objects that are relatively large in quantum computing terms, but exceedingly tiny for us. They use mechanical motion (such as vibration) to handle the necessary quantum magic, and they can be combined with other quantum systems too.

One sleepy morning while riding the 1 Train, I spotted a familiar face. Michio Kaku. With a leg crossed over his knee, here sat one of the world’s most famous professors — heading Uptown to CUNY.

We made eye contact. So I made a move.

“Ahem, Professor Kaku …” I blurted, holding eye contact in hopes of holding his attention. “Sir Isaac Newton discovered gravity. Einstein proved gravity. And so, riddle me this — who’s the greatest physicist of them all?”

Professor Kaku’s tight-lipped smile abruptly widened into a grin. I’d struck gold in the form of finding common ground. Apparently.