Introduction
The National Science Foundation (NSF) announced a groundbreaking project for a new Leadership-Class Computing Facility (LCCF) to be built at the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin). Expected to be operational by 2026, the LCCF will house a powerful new supercomputer called Horizon, the largest academic supercomputer supported by the NSF.
Designers created Horizon to significantly enhance research capabilities, particularly in simulation and artificial intelligence. Compared to the current NSF supercomputer, Frontera, Horizon promises a tenfold boost in simulation performance and a hundredfold improvement for AI.
This project will provide researchers with the computational resources needed to tackle complex scientific challenges across various disciplines, marking a major step forward in computational research and development.
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NSF Project Goal: Revolutionizing Computational Research
The primary objective of the LCCF is to revolutionize computational research across a diverse array of scientific fields. By providing access to cutting-edge computational resources, the facility will empower researchers to tackle some of the most pressing scientific challenges of our time. Whether it’s climate modeling, genomics, material science, or any other field that relies on advanced computation, the LCCF is set to be a transformative force.
NSF Project: Operational Timeline: Ready by 2026
The LCCF is expected to be fully operational by 2026. This timeline reflects the NSF’s commitment to advancing scientific research and development, ensuring that researchers have access to the best tools and resources as soon as possible. The construction and development of the facility are already underway, promising a state-of-the-art environment for computational research in the near future.
Supercomputer: Introducing Horizon
At the heart of the LCCF will be Horizon, the most powerful academic supercomputer ever funded by the NSF. Horizon will revolutionize computational research with capabilities far exceeding those of its predecessors.
Performance Boost
Horizon promises a tenfold improvement in simulation capabilities compared to the current NSF supercomputer, Frontera. This means that researchers will be able to conduct more complex and detailed simulations than ever before, opening new avenues for scientific discovery.
When it comes to artificial intelligence (AI) tasks, Horizon offers a staggering hundredfold increase in performance. This leap in computational power will enable researchers to develop more sophisticated AI models and applications, accelerating progress in this rapidly evolving field.Enhancing Research and Development
LCCF will offer a broad suite of software and services to maximize its utility. Access will be available to all scientists and engineers nationwide, with allocations through open peer-reviewed processes.
“UT and TACC have long been leaders in academic supercomputing, driving world-changing discoveries,” said President Jay Hartzell. “This investment will boost UT’s impact in AI, computational science, and more disciplines.”
National Collaboration and Impact
LCCF will collaborate with four distributed science centers, leveraging deep expertise within the nation’s cyberinfrastructure ecosystem:
- Atlanta University Center (AUC) Data Science Initiative
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center
- San Diego Supercomputer Center at the University of California San Diego
Advancing AI Research
NSF and its federal and nongovernmental partners envision LCCF as a key element in advancing the future National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR). NAIRR aims to build a national cyberinfrastructure for AI R&D. LCCF will integrate advanced computing and extensive services to boost NAIRR’s capabilities. This synergy will support large-scale AI research and foster groundbreaking discoveries. It will help solidify the U.S. as a global leader in AI and computational research.
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NSF ProjectImpact: Addressing Pressing Scientific Challenges
The LCCF and its supercomputer, Horizon, are expected to have a profound impact on a wide range of scientific disciplines. The facility will give researchers the computational power needed to tackle complex problems. This will advance our understanding of the world and help develop innovative solutions to global challenges.
Transformative Potential
The transformative potential of the LCCF cannot be overstated. With access to Horizon’s unparalleled computational power, researchers will be able to explore new frontiers in science and technology. This facility will drive breakthroughs with far-reaching implications for society. It will aid in developing new materials and medicines. Additionally, it will enhance our understanding of climate change and much more.
Conclusion
The Leadership-Class Computing Facility (LCCF) project, led by NSF and TACC, is a major advancement in computational research. It will offer unparalleled computational resources and promote national collaborations. LCCF aims to drive groundbreaking discoveries and solidify the U.S. as a global science and technology leader. The facility will integrate advanced AI research and provide extensive educational outreach.
