Donors Commit 860 Million Euros to CERN’s Future Circular Collider
A consortium of private donors has committed to funding the Future Circular Collider (FCC) at CERN. This marks a historic moment as it is the first time private entities have significantly invested in a major CERN research project.
Significant Financial Commitments
Key supporters include the Breakthrough Prize Foundation and The Eric and Wendy Schmidt Fund for Strategic Innovation. Entrepreneurs John Elkann and Xavier Niel are also among the donors. Their combined pledges total 860 million euros, roughly equivalent to 1 billion US dollars. This substantial investment aims to advance research in fundamental physics.
Purpose and Impact of the Future Circular Collider
The FCC is envisioned as a successor to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and is essential for exploring the universe further. It is designed to answer many pressing questions in particle physics, especially those related to the Higgs boson. The FCC could revolutionize our understanding of the Standard Model and facilitate discoveries in new physics.
Technical Specifications
With a circumference of 91 kilometers, the FCC would surpass the LHC and is set to open in the mid-2040s if approved. It aims to enhance technology development across various sectors and deliver significant societal benefits.
A Community Endeavor
- The FCC reflects strong international support from the particle physics community.
- It has been identified as the preferred option for future flagship colliders by CERN’s ongoing strategy update.
- A decision by the CERN Council is anticipated around 2028.
Quotes from Key Figures
CERN Director-General Fabiola Gianotti expressed gratitude to the donors for their roles in pushing the boundaries of knowledge and exploration. She highlighted that their support is crucial for the realization of the FCC.
Dr. S. Pete Worden, Chairman of the Breakthrough Prize Foundation, articulated the project’s potential to illuminate fundamental questions facing humanity. Similarly, Eric Schmidt emphasized the FCC’s capacity to advance scientific understanding while benefiting society through technology.
Professor Costas Fountas, President of the CERN Council, noted that the strong interest in the FCC demonstrates CERN’s relevance and impact on society.
Future Prospects
The FCC has also been included among 11 proposed “Moonshot” projects in the European Commission’s Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034. As preparations continue, the emphasis remains on fostering scientific innovation and nurturing the next generation of problem-solvers.
