CERN – European Organisation for Nuclear Research
Overview
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Intro
Immerse yourself in the world of the smallest particles and biggest questions of the universe. At CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, you can become a researcher yourself and experience physics up close.
CERN at a glance
The CERN Science Gateway is the education and visitor centre of the world's largest particle physics laboratory. The visitor centre, designed by the Renzo Piano architectural studio, combines exhibition spaces, laboratories and an auditorium. Three interactive exhibitions offer insights into particle physics, the universe and the quantum world. Admission is free.
What to experience
Exhibitions and Shows (1.5-3 hours)
In three permanent exhibitions, you can set up interactive experiments yourself and see a real particle accelerator in action. In the Quantum World exhibition, you will learn how quantum mechanics works. In the auditorium, CERN employees will teach you interesting phenomena in an entertaining way in science shows.
- Good to know: The exhibition is also suitable for children from about 5 years of age.
- Tip: For more in-depth information, scan the QR codes in the exhibitions.
Guided tour of CERN (1–1.5 hours)
During the guided tour of the research centre, you will visit the historic synchrocyclotron from 1957 and the control centre of a current experiment. The guides are physicists, engineers and students who report first-hand. On the tour, you will learn how protons are accelerated and made to collide.
- Good to know: You can only register on site, 2 hours before the tour starts.
- Tip: On weekdays, the guided tours are less fully booked.
Laboratory workshops (45–90 minutes)
In the two state-of-the-art laboratories, you can carry out your own experiments. CERN guides will accompany you and explain the connections of your experiment to current research at CERN. Particularly popular are the cloud chamber, where you make particle traces visible and the LEGO robot challenge for younger guests.
- Good to know: Workshops in different languages, maximum 24 participants.
- Tip: On weekends, workshops are held in English and French.
General information
| Season |
All year
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| Accessibility |
Accessible
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Discover the surroundings
Address
CERN – Globe de la science et de l’innovation
Esplanade des Particules 1
1217
Meyrin
Switzerland