CERN Plans Next Mega-Collider: The Future Circular Collider

The European organization CERN, renowned for its groundbreaking discovery of the Higgs boson in 2012, is now setting its sights on a new ambitious project: the Future Circular Collider (FCC). This proposed 91-km particle collider is designed to succeed the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) by the 2040s, aiming to explore the unknown realms beyond the standard model of particle physics. The extensive feasibility study, now completed, reflects the contributions of over a thousand scientists and engineers worldwide. It outlines the technical, environmental, and economic dimensions of the FCC, emphasizing its potential to further our understanding of fundamental physics. However, the project has sparked debate in the scientific community. While many acknowledge the need for long-term aspirations in particle physics, the FCC faces significant financial and technical challenges. The estimated 15 billion Swiss francs for the initial electron-positron stage, primarily from CERN's budget, raises questions about funding. Additionally, concerns about the feasibility of subsequently achieving the unprecedented 100 TeV energy levels, given current technological limitations, add to the contention. Despite these hurdles, supporters argue that the FCC promises not only scientific advancement but also societal benefits through technological innovations in various sectors. The project will require extensive international collaboration, echoing CERN's historic role as a paragon of multilateral scientific efforts. The forthcoming decisions by the CERN Council and member states will determine whether this bold vision proceeds.