At Quantum Discovery Center Launch, ‘The World Has Descended Upon College Park’

Governor, Pines herald Microsoft and other global firms’ arrival in the Capital of Quantum.

September 23, 2026

UMD and state officials participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new Discovery Center on Tuesday. Members are smiling behind a red ribbon.

University of Maryland and state officials on Tuesday opened a home for Microsoft's newest quantum research center, international quantum firms and UMD startups that is designed to anchor Maryland's emerging quantum industry.