On 20 September, nearly 500 people from the local area explored ESS as part of Lund’s annual Culture Night, gaining a rare glimpse into one of Europe’s most ambitious scientific projects.
Kulturnatten, Lund’s Culture Night, marked its 40th anniversary this year. Each September, the city comes alive with concerts, performances, exhibitions, and open houses, inviting the public to experience culture in all its forms. Science has a strong presence in the programme, with universities, laboratories, and cultural institutions opening their doors to the community.
This year, ESS joined the celebrations by welcoming close to 500 visitors aged 12 and up. Guests toured the 74-hectare site by bus and walked through one of the large experimental halls, where they had the opportunity to see some of the scientific instruments that will enter operation in the coming years.
Throughout the day, visitors met with ESS engineers and scientists, who explained the project’s progress and future research activities. Once operational in 2028, ESS will be the world’s most powerful accelerator-based neutron source, enabling breakthroughs in fields ranging from healthcare and sustainability to energy, transport and quantum technology.
The event highlighted the value of connecting large-scale research infrastructures with the communities that host them. Visitor feedback was highly positive, with 96% of attendees rating the experience as either 4 or 5 star.
With progress continuing on the road to science, ESS looks forward to participating in future events such as Kulturnatten, offering more opportunities for the public to explore the facility and learn about the research it will enable.
Here are some of the comments shared after the event:
“It was so interesting, thanks for opening up for the public during Kulturnatten, ESS!”
Facebook comment
“I would probably like to work on ESS...seems like a good place to work.”
Feedback form
“Continue with easy-to-understand information for the public. Both in terms of facility information and research results.”
Feedback form
“The part where we were inside the hall and got to see and hear about the different instruments. The dialogue with the guide about how they work at ESS. The guide's experiences of his work.”
A visitor, on the most interesting part of the visit.
“Such a fun day, and to meet the public and see their expectations and interest in ESS.”
ESS staff member
