Although their trip started with an unplanned twist – dense fog delaying their departure – the group’s spirits were high as they landed in Geneva. That evening, they kicked things off with a spirited round of bowling and an indulgent all-you-can-eat pizza feast, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.
The Scientific Gateway
Saturday morning was all about science. The students boarded a tram that whisked them to CERN, where they were greeted by the newly-inaugurated Scientific Gateway. This state-of-the-art complex is home to exhibits that vividly chronicle CERN’s impressive 75-year legacy of research in nuclear and particle physics. The first stop was the iconic Globe of Science and Innovation, where students immersed themselves in the rich history of CERN, its scientific milestones, and its bold vision for the future.
Next, the group delved into the workings of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) during a fascinating lecture. They explored how the CMS (Compact Muon Solenoid) detector investigates muons and other particle interactions, bringing the complex processes of particle collisions to life. The students then enjoyed lunch at the CERN café – a perfect chance for some group photos and a visit to the gift shop.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
The afternoon’s highlight was a behind-the-scenes tour led by CERN scientists. First stop was the Antimatter Factory to learn how antimatter is created, its use in scientific experiments, and the hopes of being able to understand why matter dominated antimatter shortly after the Big Bang. This was followed with a viewing of one of CERN’s original particle accelerators, gaining insights into how particles are propelled to near-light speeds using electromagnetic fields and radio-frequency cavities before colliding in highly controlled experiments. The tour concluded with a visit to the lead-ion accelerator where the students witnessed its operation and learned about its role.
After a hard day’s work, the group relaxed by the shore of Lake Geneva, to take in the breath-taking views of the picturesque waterfront. Dinner that night was a cultural delight – an authentic Swiss fondue feast accompanied by the lively tunes of an oompah band, making for a truly memorable evening.
