A molecular quantum computing cloud is a speculative kind of extraterrestrial life described by Arvidas Tamulis and coauthors that has similarities to Fred Hoyle's fictional Black Cloud.^{1, 2} It takes the form of a molecular quantum computing cloud that would be able to absorb magnetic and light energy from stars and planets, process information, and move in space by using radiation pressure. Tamulis and his colleagues pointed out the similarity to molecular quantum computers that will use photoactive molecules converting light energy to magnetic flops interacting and controlling the central generating element of 10 quantum bits. An essentially requirement for quantum computing life would be long-lasting coherent quantum states, which would only be possible at extremely low temperatures found in interstellar dust clouds and on very cold planets.

 

References

1. Tamulis, A., Tamuliene, J., Balevicius, M. L., and Rinkevicius, Z. "Ab initio quantum chemical search of per linear transition state of azo-dye molecules and design of molecular logical machines." Nonlinear Optics, 27, 481–488 (2001).
2. Tamulis A., Tamuliene, J., and Tamulis, V. "Quantum mechanical search for molecular quantum computing living systems." Abstract collection of 1st Workshop of the COST Chemistry Action D27 on Origins of Life and Early Evolution, Ravello, Italy, p. 65.