The exhibition "CERN - Universe of Discoveries" opened on November 30, 2024, in the European House in Belgrade, marking 70 years since the establishment of the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN).
Rihard Maša, Head of Operations at the EU Delegation in Serbia, emphasized the EU's support for science and innovation in the country, having allocated €90 million in grants for successful projects. He expressed pride in Serbia's collaboration with CERN, which allows Serbian researchers to contribute to scientific advancements and tackle global challenges.
Dr. Manfred Kramer, Director of Experimental Physics at CERN, noted that the organization has become a symbol of scientific innovation since its inception in 1954. Serbian scientists are involved in two of the four major experiments at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), which seeks to understand fundamental particles and the origins of the universe.
"CERN is not only the largest scientific experiment but also a significant peace project, uniting scientists globally for humanity's benefit," Kramer stated. He highlighted the creation of the internet as one of CERN's major achievements, underscoring its impact on modern society.
Vukašin Grozdić, Secretary of the Ministry of Science, Technology Development, and Innovation, explained that the exhibition aims to engage the public, especially youth, in understanding particle collisions and information processing at near-light speeds.
Danijela Vučićević, Acting Director of the Center for Promotion of Science, remarked that the exhibition is a unique opportunity to explore CERN's contributions to research and education. She emphasized that the future of CERN lies not only in scientific discovery but also in international collaboration, which, while demanding, offers substantial rewards.
The exhibition will run until December 20, 2024, featuring interactive displays that unravel the mysteries of the universe. Daily guided tours will be available without prior registration, alongside a rich program including a Science Show every Saturday, where scientists will demonstrate fundamental principles explored at CERN. Workshops for primary and secondary school students will also provide insights into the laws of physics and CERN's ongoing research.