Welcome to the Accelerators and Technologies Sector
The ATS oversees the operation of CERN's accelerator complex which includes the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). ATS manages the deployment, operation, and development of all accelerator technologies that underpin current and future operation.
Aligned with the Organization's strategic objectives, the sector guarantees the design, development, and implementation of upgrades to existing facilities. Additionally, it accommodates future accelerator projects, and related research and development.
Core activities
Ensure safe and effective exploitation of the accelerators complex and its experimental facilities.
The aging accelerator complex requires continuous maintenance and consolidation, with significant planned upgrades like the High Luminosity LHC.
Maintain expertise in accelerator technologies and related support facilities. Coordinate R&D programs for future particle accelerators in collaboration with European and international partners.
Explore options for post-HL-LHC operation in the early 2040s, such as the Future Circular Collider (FCC) study, which explores collider possibilities within a 91 km circular tunnel in the local area.
Operate, maintain and develop CERN's extensive Technical Infrastructure (electrical network, cooling and ventilation, handling engineering, access and alarms)
State-of-the-art particle accelerators and detectors cannot be bought off the shelf. They come to life in workshops staffed by teams of highly skilled engineers and technicians
Latest News
CERN releases report on the feasibility of a possible Future Circular Collider
Released today, a report of a study investigating the project’s feasibility will serve as input for the European Strategy for Particle Physics and be assessed by the CERN Council in the coming months
Read moreAccelerator Report: The LHC commissioning is well on track, but challenges lie ahead
The first beam-based physics of 2025 has started and more will follow soon. However, some unexpected challenges will cause a small delay in the restart of the LHC
Read moreParticles are back in the accelerators
The four accelerators that feed into the Large Hadron Collider have all been restarted, while the LHC itself will receive its first particles in April
Read moreAccelerator Report: Recommissioning on track as the first beams progress through the complex
The recommissioning of the accelerators is progressing according to schedule. Unsurprisingly, some issues have arisen, but they have been swiftly addressed by equipment experts. First physics in the PS East Area and n_TOF is scheduled to start next week
Read moreAccelerator Report: Linac4 beam commissioning is nearing completion and the PS Booster is next in line
While the first H⁻ ion beams have been accelerated up to 160 MeV in Linac4, the PS Booster is preparing for its first proton injection of 2025
Read more