Swinburne supercomputer heralds next generation of discoveries

Swinburne University of Technology has launched a $5.2 million supercomputer that will produce significant advancements in space technology, medicine and environmental research by researchers and partners across Australia. The supercomputer has a processing capacity millions of times greater than that of regular computers, enabling innovative research into space, complex ecosystems on Earth, and the brain.

The Ngarrgu Tindebeek supercomputer was named by Wurundjeri elders through the assistance of the Moondani Toombadool Centre. It translates as “Knowledge of the Void” in the local Woiwurrung language and represents the goal of harnessing the power of a supercomputer to enable researchers to explain the unknown.

Its capabilities include forming a better understanding of the mysteries of space (such as gravitational waves, black holes and galaxy formation), the brain’s operation through analysis of brain data by neuroscientists, and the planet through earth observation data generated from satellites and other ecosystem analysis.

Data Science Research Institute Director Professor Matthew Bailes said the supercomputer is designed to help researchers facing massive data sets make “ground-breaking” discoveries. “What used to take researchers and students weeks or months to achieve on their desktops, can now be done in a matter of hours. This makes it such a sought-after machine from scientists in Australia and around the world,” Bailes said.

The supercomputer could also help researchers convincingly detect gravitational waves from super massive black holes by performing trillions of calculations every second for weeks. All Victorian universities will be able to use the supercomputer in collaborative research projects. This program of work will support 50 researchers and be used by over 250 students from high school to PhD level.

Swinburne is also exploring longer-term engagements with Wurundjeri and other Indigenous communities through the supercomputer in relation to school engagement and research opportunities. Indigenous artist Mandi Barton will design feature artwork for the exterior of the supercomputer, further enhancing Ngarrgu Tindebeek’s connection to the local Wurundjeri community.

The facility will be supported by Astronomy Australia Limited (AAL) and in partnership with Victoria University (VU) and Federation University Australia (FUA).

Image caption: Professor Matthew Bailes with the Ngarrgu Tindebeek supercomputer. Image credit: Swinburne University of Technology