Slovak Academy of Sciences officially launches PERUN SAS supercomputer
Slovakia has a new supercomputer. Today, the Slovak Academy of Sciences officially launched PERUN SAS – an infrastructure that fundamentally strengthens the country's computing capacity and opens up new possibilities for science, research and innovation.
With a performance of up to 14.5 PFLOP/s, PERUN is one of the most powerful computing systems in the region. Compared to the previous Devana supercomputer, it represents a leap in capacity, significantly expanding the possibilities for scientific research and industrial applications.
The event opened with a panel discussion on Slovakia in the era of artificial intelligence, which showed that high-performance computing is no longer just a topic for research laboratories but a strategic issue for the entire economy. The opening ceremony culminated in a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by government officials and representatives of key institutions.
"The Slovak Academy of Sciences has long emphasised the need for high-quality research infrastructure. PERUN is concrete proof that such investments make sense. It gives our scientists a tool that will enable them to conduct research at a level that is fully comparable to the international environment," said the President of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Martin Venhart.
The PERUN supercomputer also strengthens Slovakia's position in the European high-performance computing space and creates conditions for broader involvement in international projects and initiatives.
"I knew that PERUN was a machine that would take us further. But when I arrived and saw the people working on the project, I understood that we were creating something much bigger. We are creating proof that Slovakia, when it wants to, can think big. However, PERUN is only a tool. Its real value will be provided by scientists, doctoral students, and researchers who come here with questions that still lack answers. I have already figured out one today: whether Slovak science has a chance to succeed in the world. The answer is yes, also thanks to Perun," said Samuel Migal.
The project's importance is also emphasised by its practical significance, spanning scientific research to practical applications.
PERUN is not just a technological device, but a tool that allows us to analyse large volumes of data and solve complex problems where computing power has been lacking until now. From medicine to climate models to industrial innovations – its use has a real impact on everyday life. It is a clear signal that Slovakia is capable of building a modern infrastructure with real significance for science and society. I would like to thank the entire team of experts who participated in the preparation and implementation of the project – without their commitment, PERUN would not be a reality today," said Nikola Kovaničová, Director General of the Centre of Operations of the Slovak Academy of Sciences.
However, the most important thing is to start now. PERUN is ready to count.
Processed by: Nataša Dojčáková, Centre of Operations of the Slovak Academy of Sciences
Photo: Matej Pok