LHCf

Large Hadron Collider forward

The LHCf experiment uses forward particles created inside the LHC as a source to simulate cosmic rays in laboratory conditions.

Cosmic rays are naturally occurring charged particles from outer space that constantly bombard the Earth's atmosphere. They collide with nuclei in the upper atmosphere, leading to a cascade of particles that reaches ground level.

Studying how collisions inside the LHC cause similar cascades of particles will help scientists to interpret and calibrate large-scale cosmic-ray experiments that can cover thousands of kilometres.

The LHCf experiment involves 22 scientists from 10 institutes in 4 countries (September 2006).

LHCf detector

• Size: two detectors, each measures 30 cm long, 80 cm high, 10 cm wide
• Weight: 40 kg each
• Location: Meyrin, Switzerland (near ATLAS)