CERN Starts Dismantling LHC for High-Luminosity Upgrade
CERN has started disconnecting sections of the Large Hadron Collider during its third long shutdown to replace aging inner triplet quadrupole magnets. The new magnets are expected to be about 40% stronger, supporting the High-Luminosity LHC's goal of producing more collisions and data. The first new quadrupole should reach the tunnel in early 2029, with 16 cryostats and 28 cryo-assemblies to be installed.
The LHC’s 27-kilometre ring uses many magnet types to steer particle beams. Its inner triplets—three quadrupoles beside each of the four main detectors—tightly focus beams before collisions, directly influencing collision rates and data volume.
During LS3, crews are removing 28 superconducting magnets, including triplets installed between 2005 and 2007. New niobium-tin versions can reach 11.3 tesla, roughly 40% stronger, and will serve ATLAS and CMS. ALICE and LHCb keep their triplets but receive upgrades. The first new quadrupole is due in the tunnel in early 2029, alongside 16 cryostats and 28 cryo-assemblies.
The upgrade may affect researchers worldwide by enabling more precise studies of fundamental particles, possibly leading to discoveries that reshape physics textbooks. Industry and technology sectors could benefit from advances in superconducting magnets and cryogenics, while taxpayers and funding agencies may see long-term returns through innovation and training. The public may gain from improved understanding of matter, though concrete applications often take years and are uncertain.