On October 2, 2024, the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) celebrated its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of pioneering research that has fundamentally changed our understanding of the universe. "CERN is an excellent example of how a scientific research infrastructure can contribute to the development of world-leading modern technologies that are practically applicable," stated László Bódis, Hungary's Deputy Secretary of State for Innovation, during the celebrations.
CERN's focus has always been on the study of elementary particles, the smallest building blocks of our world. Through its research, scientists aim to understand the origins, workings, and future of the universe. Notably, CERN was the birthplace of revolutionary discoveries, including the Higgs boson in 2012, which had been predicted by the standard model but lacked experimental evidence for decades.
The current research at CERN is centered around understanding the universe's mysterious "dark" components—dark matter and dark energy—which constitute about 95% of the known universe, yet remain largely elusive. The implications of these studies extend far beyond theoretical physics; the practical applications of CERN's findings have already influenced various fields, from industrial and technological innovations, such as self-driving cars and the very foundation of the internet, to advancements in healthcare.
Thanks to CERN, Europe remains at the forefront of particle physics. However, this competitive edge is not guaranteed, as both the United States and China are making significant strides in this domain. Therefore, continued support for and investment in scientific research is essential for maintaining this advantage, as these investments are the key to future innovations.
Hungary plays a crucial role in this collaborative effort, with nearly one hundred Hungarian researchers actively participating in experiments at CERN, alongside numerous innovative Hungarian companies closely working with the organization.