CERN's interactive centre, "Science Gateway", a further step in bringing science closer to society

CERN (Conseil Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire), one of the world’s leading research laboratories, based in Geneva, operates the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator, the Large Hadron Collider, situated 100 metres underground and consisting of a 27-kilometre ring, in which protons and ions collide at a speed almost equal to that of light, to create the conditions needed to solve the mysteries of the Universe.

To bring science closer to society, CERN has established the Science Gateway, a complex of tubular-shaped facilities inspired by the large accelerator, comprising five exhibition areas, laboratories, and an auditorium, adapted for all audiences aged 5 and over, and capable of accommodating the 500,000 visitors it receives each year.

The Science Gateway, designed by the Italian architect Renzo Piano and funded entirely by donations, features numerous interactive experiences, videos, animations, virtual and augmented reality, and more, in which the public can participate directly under the guidance of CERN volunteers, offering visitors the opportunity to interact with scientists.

In addition, 400 trees have been planted in the surrounding area so that visitors can enjoy an urban forest.

For more information: Science Gateway (CERN)