Billionaires Commit Funding for Next-Generation CERN Particle Accelerator
The European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) is approaching a crucial decision regarding the construction of a new, large-scale particle accelerator that could succeed the current Large Hadron Collider (LHC). In a significant development, several prominent private investors have pledged nearly one billion euros in financial support, marking an unprecedented move in the history of fundamental physics research funding.
Through both direct contributions and philanthropic foundations, a group of internationally recognized technology entrepreneurs and investors have committed approximately 860 million euros to CERN. Notable contributors include the foundation of former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, French tech billionaire Xavier Niel, Italian businessman John Elkann, and the Breakthrough Prize Foundation. The latter draws support from influential figures such as Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg and Google co-founder Sergey Brin. Despite this considerable financial commitment, the pledged funds represent only a fraction of the total estimated costs. The initial phase of the planned Future Circular Collider (FCC) is projected to require around 16 billion euros.
The Future Circular Collider is envisioned as a ring-shaped accelerator positioned approximately 200 meters underground, with a circumference of 91 kilometers--significantly larger than the existing 27-kilometer LHC. The proposed facility aims to accelerate particles to energies up to 100 teraelectronvolts (TeV), substantially surpassing the LHC's capabilities. The scientific objective is to advance research in particle physics, deepening the understanding of the fundamental components and forces of the universe. Additionally, CERN highlights the potential for technological advancements and broader societal benefits resulting from the development and operation of such a large-scale scientific undertaking.
CERN's leadership emphasizes that this form of private funding is a novel and vital addition to their traditional government-backed financing model. They assert that the involvement of private investors is essential for realizing the FCC, helping to ensure the continuation of ground-breaking scientific research for future generations. The institution notes that the FCC's construction and operation could drive innovation across multiple fields, ranging from medical technology to computing and engineering, thereby delivering tangible advantages beyond the scientific community.
The concept for the FCC was introduced approximately six years ago, with the aim of addressing unanswered questions in particle physics and extending the frontiers of human knowledge. In early 2025, CERN published a feasibility study confirming that the ambitious project is technically achievable. The timeline for potential approval by CERN's European funding partners is estimated around 2028, and, should the project proceed, the FCC could begin operations in the 2040s. The recent financial commitments from private individuals are expected to encourage member states to follow suit, facilitating the accumulation of the necessary resources for the project's realization.
As discussions among CERN member states continue, the integration of private capital into the funding structure for fundamental research marks a significant shift. The success of the project could set a precedent for future large-scale scientific endeavors, demonstrating the value of public-private collaboration in advancing scientific discovery and technological progress.