One of the purposes of the project is to build the Next-Generation Supercomputer. Supercomputing and computational science are now recognized as vital methods for scientific research, alongside experiments and theory. Due to be ready in 2012, the new supercomputer will ensure that Japan continues to lead the world in science and technology, academic research, industry, and medicine.
The parts of the project are as follows:
(1)Design, build, and set up the Next-Generation Supercomputer, the world’s fastest and most advanced computer, with a speed of 10 petaflops
(2)Develop and distribute large-scale software applications (the “Grand Challenge” software) that make full use of the supercomputer
(3)Connect the supercomputer to the Cyber Science Infrastructure, a multilayered environment for the shared use of supercomputers across Japan using the Science Information Network (run by the National Institute of Informatics)
(4)Set up a center to run the supercomputer, to be the world’s top center of excellence in the field of supercomputing
The Next-Generation Supercomputer project is being carried out by RIKEN, with partners in industry, universities, and the government, under an initiative by MEXT (the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology).
