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CERN Science Gateway: Unveiling the Secrets of the Universe

Explore the wonders of particle physics at CERN Science Gateway in Meyrin, Switzerland: interactive exhibits, hands-on workshops, and guided tours await curious minds of all ages.

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The CERN Science Gateway, located in Meyrin, Switzerland, is a cutting-edge science education and outreach center that opened in October 2023. Designed by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop, the iconic structure mirrors CERN's industrial aesthetic with suspended tubes and bridges, symbolizing the connection between science and society. This gateway to particle physics offers interactive exhibitions, hands-on labs, science shows, and guided tours of CERN's research facilities, making complex concepts accessible to visitors of all ages. Admission is free, encouraging everyone to explore the fundamental building blocks of our universe. The Science Gateway aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and foster a deeper understanding of the world around us, making it a must-visit destination for anyone curious about the mysteries of particle physics and the wonders of scientific exploration. Audio descriptions, video subtitles and tactile content enhance accessibility.

A brief summary to CERN Science Gateway

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to maximize your time and secure spots in popular activities like guided tours and lab workshops, which have limited capacity.
  • Take advantage of the free admission to explore the interactive exhibitions at your own pace, allowing ample time to engage with the exhibits that pique your interest the most.
  • Check the CERN Science Gateway website for the daily schedule of science shows, films, and special events to plan your visit around specific programs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Geneva city center or Geneva Airport, the most convenient way to reach CERN Science Gateway is by public transport. Take tram 18 to the 'CERN' terminus. Alternatively, several bus lines (67, 68) also stop at CERN. If starting from Geneva Airport, take bus 23, 28, or 57 to 'Blandonnet' and then transfer to tram 18 or bus 68 to CERN. A 'Tout Genève' ticket, costing CHF 3, covers the entire journey from the city center. From the airport, a ticket purchased at the machine in the baggage claim area is valid for 80 minutes. If you are going to explore the city and then CERN, consider buying a 'carte journaliere' for CHF 8, valid all day. The tram and bus stops are located a short walk from the Science Gateway entrance.

  • Driving

    If driving to CERN Science Gateway, follow signs for 'Aeroport', 'Lyon', or 'Meyrin' from the Swiss side, or 'Gex' or 'St. Genis' from the French side. A paid car park is available behind the Globe of Science and Innovation, a short walk from the Science Gateway. Parking is allowed only for the duration of your visit, and overnight parking is prohibited. Parking rates are as follows: Free for the first 29 minutes, CHF 2 for 30-59 minutes, CHF 4 for 1-1h59 minutes, CHF 6 for 2-2h59 minutes, CHF 8 for 3-3h59 minutes, CHF 10 for 4-4h59 minutes, CHF 12 for 5-5h59 minutes, and CHF 3 for any started additional hour. Lost tickets cost CHF 50. Payments are by card only. Accessible parking spaces are available for visitors with disabilities.

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Discover more about CERN Science Gateway

CERN Science Gateway, situated in Meyrin on the outskirts of Geneva, Switzerland, stands as a beacon of scientific curiosity and a testament to human ingenuity. Inaugurated in October 2023, this state-of-the-art facility serves as the primary science education and outreach center for CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research), the world's largest particle physics laboratory. Designed by the renowned Renzo Piano Building Workshop, with support from Brodbeck–Roulet architectes associés, the Science Gateway is more than just a building; it's an architectural marvel that embodies the spirit of scientific exploration and discovery. The building's design embraces the industrial heritage of CERN, featuring suspended tubular structures reminiscent of the facility's advanced particle accelerators. Footbridges elegantly connect different sections of the Gateway, symbolizing the vital link between science and society. The center spans an impressive 8,000 square meters, housing a variety of engaging spaces, including interactive exhibition halls, hands-on laboratories, a modular auditorium, a well-stocked shop, and a welcoming restaurant. The Science Gateway's primary mission is to demystify the complex world of particle physics and make it accessible to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The interactive exhibitions are designed to captivate and educate, offering a journey to the heart of matter, from the study of fundamental particles to the Big Bang and the intricacies of the quantum realm. Visitors can participate in simulated particle collisions, explore the history of particle physics, and gain insights into the groundbreaking experiments conducted at CERN. Beyond the exhibitions, the Science Gateway provides a range of hands-on learning experiences. The laboratories offer visitors the chance to engage in real scientific activities, guided by experienced facilitators. These workshops cater to various age groups and skill levels, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific principles and encouraging a passion for discovery. Science shows and films further enhance the visitor experience, presenting complex concepts in an engaging and entertaining format. CERN Science Gateway serves as the starting point for guided tours of CERN's research facilities. These tours provide a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the cutting-edge technology and groundbreaking experiments that are shaping our understanding of the universe. Knowledgeable guides, often members of CERN's staff, lead visitors through the facilities, explaining the science behind the experiments and answering questions about the organization's mission. Accessibility is a key priority at the Science Gateway. The facility is designed to be wheelchair and pushchair friendly, with lifts providing access to all levels. Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities are also available. In exhibition areas, all video projections are subtitled, and tactile content has been specifically designed for people with visual impairments. Audio-descriptive content is available for a selection of exhibits via QR codes. Admission to the CERN Science Gateway is free for everyone, reflecting CERN's commitment to public engagement and education. Families, individual visitors, and small groups can freely access the exhibitions, science shows, and films. Guided tours and lab workshops can be booked on-site on the day of the visit, subject to availability. School groups and larger groups are required to book in advance due to high demand and limited capacity. The Science Gateway is not only a place for learning and discovery but also a venue for events and conferences. The modular auditorium and the Globe of Science and Innovation are available for hire, providing a unique setting for corporate events, scientific conferences, and public lectures. These venues offer state-of-the-art facilities and a captivating atmosphere, making them ideal for events that aim to inspire and engage. CERN Science Gateway is easily accessible by public transport. Tram line 18 and bus lines 67 and 68 stop directly at the CERN entrance, providing convenient connections to Geneva city center and Geneva Airport. For visitors arriving by car, a paid car park is located behind the Globe of Science and Innovation. The CERN Science Gateway represents a significant investment in science education and public engagement. By providing a welcoming and accessible environment for learning about particle physics, the Gateway aims to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. It serves as a bridge between the scientific community and the public, fostering a deeper understanding of the fundamental laws that govern our universe. Visiting the CERN Science Gateway is an enriching experience for anyone with a curiosity about science and the world around us. Whether you are a seasoned physicist or a curious student, the Gateway offers something for everyone. From interactive exhibits to hands-on workshops and guided tours, the Science Gateway provides a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of particle physics and the groundbreaking research being conducted at CERN. The Science Gateway is more than just a museum or a science center; it is a dynamic hub for learning, discovery, and inspiration. It is a place where science comes to life, where complex concepts are made accessible, and where the next generation of scientific leaders is nurtured. A visit to the CERN Science Gateway is an unforgettable journey into the heart of matter and a celebration of human curiosity and ingenuity.

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