World

U faculty weigh in on LHC shut down

Published: 09/25/2008

Although there won’t be any proton collisions at the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva for the next several months, University physics professor Roger Rusack said there is work to be done before it reopens, likely in March or April of 2009.

Last Friday, a helium leak, likely the result of faulty wiring, caused the LHC to shut down. In order to make repairs, the collider must be heated to room temperature — about 560 degrees Fahrenheit above the near absolute zero temperatures the collider operates at.

The warm up and cool down alone will take about two months and will be followed by a scheduled shutdown for winter, when heightened electricity costs prevent the collider from running.

Rusack, who’s been working on the LHC since 1993, said he had a lot of confidence in CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, to deal with the problem and prevent similar issues from happening in the future.

“I’m quite sure that they’ll check and make sure that each one of these connections is good,” he said.

Kenneth Heller, a University physics professor, said an electrical problem with the LHC didn’t come as a surprise to anybody.

“It’s a big, complicated gadget,” he said, and added that people have actually been amazed at how smoothly it had been operating up to that point.

Rusack said Ph.D. students whose theses depend on data from LHC proton collisions will be most impacted by the shutdown.

University physics professor Yuichi Kubota said his graduate student is in Geneva now, where he had hoped to “witness the historical moment of the first colliding beam.”

Now he’ll have to wait for several more months. Kubota added that although the delay is a bit of a drag, there is maintenance and testing that can be done on the Compact Muon Solenoid while the collider is shut down.

Jason Haupt, a graduate student working with Rusack, said the shutdown was “kind of upsetting, but I knew it could happen.”

Haupt said he has been working for the past several years on calibrating the electromagnetic calorimeter (ECAL), a type of particle detector that uses lead crystals.

This detector is a component of the 14,000-ton Compact Muon Solenoid, one of the collider’s two main detectors.

Rusack, who is in Geneva this week, will become the project manager for ECAL in January. That means he’ll be responsible for the 90-ton crystal detector, which is designed to detect photons and electrons with high precision.

As project manager, Rusack will be working with 200 physicists from all over the world. Collaboration is a major part of the LHC project, and Kubota said it has been a big accomplishment for the physicists to get used to working together.

The detector that Rusack is involved with is just one of many components essential to achieving the goals of the Large Hadron Collider.

Kenneth Heller, University physics professor, said the primary goal of the LHC is to understand the origin of mass. The current theory requires a particle called the Higg’s boson, which the device is designed to detect.

“Either [the particle] will be found, and we will slap ourselves on the collective back and say ‘Ah, we understand physics, even at this level,’ or it won’t be found and we would get very puzzled,” he said.

Things like extra dimensions and miniature black holes could also be explored by the LHC, said Heller.

Joseph Kapusta, a theoretical physicist and University physics professor, is working with a team that plans to use heavy nuclei collisions to recreate the matter that resulted from the big bang.

Kapusta, who has published a paper on accelerator disaster scenarios, said the chances that LHC experiments will cause disaster are much smaller than the probability that an asteroid will hit the Earth and destroy half the life on the planet — something that happens every 60 million to 100 million years.

122 Comments

The Minnesota Daily wants to host a forum for discussion regarding issues and stories regarding the University of Minnesota and surrounding communities. However, the online comments should not be used to threaten or defame. This is a place for people to be heard, and want to contribute to discussion. Those who persist to use expletives, inappropriate, racist, defamatory or abusive postings risk losing the privilege to post.

To comment, please login.

Incorporating some, but not

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 07/20/2009 - 4:48am.

Incorporating some, but not all, aspects of what many viewed as hard-line and progressive recommendations by the school’s conflicts of interest task force, Powell’s draft moves the long-coming policy reform in a much softer direction than expected, sources close to the reform said.
graduate diploma AND Associate Degree

Kenali dan Kunjungi objek wisata di pandeglang

Submitted by kerjakeras on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 4:15am.

Hi
thank for the article, and thank also for the comment. all great.

cheers,
Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang

viewed as hard-line and

Submitted by david miki on Fri, 10/30/2009 - 11:46am.

viewed as hard-line and progressive recommendations by the school’s conflicts of interest task force, Powell’s draft moves the long-coming policy reform Laptop Computers

Interesting post and I really

Submitted by GerryG on Fri, 12/11/2009 - 8:21am.

Interesting post and I really like your take on the issue. I now have a clear idea on what this matter is all about. Thank you so much. Alternative Allergy Treatment

You are absolutely right.

Submitted by Love on Tue, 12/22/2009 - 11:37pm.

You are absolutely right. They have done the right thing for our educational system and I hope that our kids will get better at science and Math.
Moroccan lamps | Moroccan furniture

in recent times, thanks to

Submitted by asope on Thu, 12/24/2009 - 3:16am.

in recent times, thanks to the testimonies of many of you, we proved that there are really very effective products
Regards,
Jude- agrandar pene

Hello

Submitted by cChristina on Wed, 02/03/2010 - 11:39am.

the school’s conflicts of interest task force, Powell’s draft moves the long-coming policy reform in a much softer direction than expected, sources close to the reform said.Vehicle Leasing UK

I do agree with your thoughts

Submitted by GerryG on Fri, 01/01/2010 - 2:50pm.

I do agree with your thoughts on the issue.
dual diagnosis centers

Congratulations for that winning shot!

Submitted by skintreatment on Wed, 01/13/2010 - 2:12am.

I am happy to find so many useful information here in the post, thanks for sharing.

Beauty Solutions and
World Tour and Travel
Online Sports News
Apple iphone Crowds
Music World

Powell's report is just one

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 07/20/2009 - 4:49am.

Powell's report is just one part of an in-depth look at the need for reform at the school, which includes community focus groups, an independent review of current policies and input from faculty.
distance learning university AND Online degree programs AND Online degree

Discoveries at the LHC..

Submitted by McCain on Sun, 09/27/2009 - 12:04am.

Discoveries at the LHC will open new vistas on the deepest secrets of the universe, stretching the imagination with new forms of matter, new forces of nature, and new dimensions of space. This project must go on.

Hotel Marina Dubai

Nice

Submitted by carpartshouse on Mon, 01/18/2010 - 5:08am.

Hi,
I found your poston google. I just added you to my Google News Reader. Keep up the good work. Look forward to reading more from you in the future.
Regards,
Rayan
auto parts warehouse

"Discoveries at the LHC will

Submitted by david14 on Tue, 01/26/2010 - 4:45am.

"Discoveries at the LHC will open new vistas on the deepest secrets of the universe" i dont think so if it will

David
Dubai Hotels

Sounds cool! I am glad to

Submitted by illusion on Fri, 10/09/2009 - 3:47am.

Sounds cool! I am glad to know about the working plan, Well the faculty is great and lets hope for something great and innovative.
Cheers.
Personal Contract hire ||Paid Surveys

Dog Training

Submitted by kerjakeras on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 4:18am.

Hi,
I agree with your comment that Powell report is just one part of an in depth look at the need.....

cheers,
Dog Training

thanbks for the post

Submitted by warriorr on Wed, 01/13/2010 - 9:54am.

Predictii Fotbal
Predictii Tenis
Predictii Hochei
Predictii Baschet
Predictii Volei
Predictii Baseball
Predictii Handbal

The only difference is that

Submitted by asope on Sun, 01/17/2010 - 6:59pm.

The only difference is that in the Jelq and Hold, you have to hold it for 10 seconds when you reach the head. Perform this for 20 strokes.
Regards,
Dr. Ming-- Eyaculacion precoz

The project was a big waste

Submitted by Modern Technologies (not verified) on Tue, 08/04/2009 - 6:04am.

The project was a big waste of money since the beggining. I dont think its a normal thing when Modern Technology invests 9 billion $ for what ? 0 Results?
Thats why the scientists working on the project, turned to the rivals in the field.
The remaining workers who are devoted to the project are making statements that the whole project will become fully operational a few years in the future.

Obviously

Submitted by Mmorpg (not verified) on Fri, 08/07/2009 - 10:49pm.

Why is it a surprise that the project was a big waste of money? It was administered and funded by an enormous bureaucracy, there was bound to be some inefficiencies, I'm surprised they're still committed to getting the LHC working.

Penis enlargement procedures

Submitted by asope on Sun, 01/17/2010 - 6:53pm.

Penis enlargement procedures sometimes euphemistically referred to as male enhancement procedures in spam email and television advertisements are techniques alleged to make the human penis larger.
Regards,
agrandir penis

Penis pumps, usually

Submitted by asope on Sun, 01/17/2010 - 6:58pm.

Penis pumps, usually described in this context as vacuum pumps, have use in conventional treatment of impotence.
Regards,
Dr Mike-- agrandar pene

They said that The LHC has

Submitted by chiery on Wed, 09/23/2009 - 1:07am.

They said that The LHC has absolutely no chance of destroying anything bigger than a few protons, let alone the Earth. This is not based on theoretical assumptions. So actually we don't have to be concern. Right?

Addicting Games | Free Games | Video Games

Expensive but necessary

Submitted by Alan P on Sat, 09/26/2009 - 8:14am.

Although I agree $9 billion is a tremendous amount of money, I don't think it is a complete waste of government funds as a previous poster put it. We owe much of our modern life style to recent discoveries in physics. Nuclear medicine and microwave ovens, just to name a couple. Who knows what will come out of this project? The day we stop spending on science is the day our civilization stagnates.
Driving Schools | Driving Instructor Jobs | Driving School Franchise

Thank you

Submitted by macfamous on Sun, 09/27/2009 - 8:25am.

Wow! Thank you Mencari Blogpreneur Sejati I always wanted to write in my site something Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang like that. Can I take part of your post oes tsetnoc to my blog?

louis vuitton

Submitted by huzunjing (not verified) on Mon, 09/28/2009 - 12:21am.

The information you posted about louis vuitton is so

useful, I am expecting for your next post.

Mengembalikan Jati Diri Bangsa

Submitted by kerjakeras on Fri, 10/23/2009 - 4:22am.

great article. no wonder so many visitors commenting on this post.

cheers,
Mengembalikan Jati Diri Bangsa

I was very keen to see the

Submitted by McCain on Tue, 09/29/2009 - 5:28am.

I was very keen to see the out come of this project but unfortunately it has to stop in the midle. Any idea when it will be resuming.

SEO Dubai

keep on

Submitted by victor1 on Sat, 10/03/2009 - 5:35am.

Scientists keep on working then we get something great and amazing, i dont think any money has gone waste, infact it will inspire for another successful approach. Wedding Dresses
Wedding Flowers

wasting tax payer money

Submitted by santiku on Wed, 10/14/2009 - 5:34am.

Unless the experiment will produce something useful for our humanity now or future, I recond it is wasting of tax payer money. Better use apotik for something else helping poor people and remember reduce birth will reduce poor people.

you rock

Submitted by pancallok1 on Thu, 10/15/2009 - 9:23pm.

really interesting bro, thanks a lot
Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang
Tips Komputer Tips Komputer
Mp3 Terbaru Mp3 Terbaru
4shared Mp3 4shared Mp3
Lagu Indonesia Terbaru Lagu Indonesia Terbaru
4shared Download Mp3 4shared Download Mp3
Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang

nice share, great article,

Submitted by cicurug on Fri, 10/16/2009 - 8:18pm.

good information

Submitted by ardh on Sat, 10/17/2009 - 9:28pm.

thank you for sharing. That's intersting article.
how to get rid of pimples|heated mattress pad

DesignerBagsShoppe.Com Crazy October Sale is Here !

Submitted by designerbagsshoppe (not verified) on Sat, 10/17/2009 - 11:02pm.

Fancy owning a Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu, Chanel and other designer items but can't afford it ? Well now you can at http://DesignerBagsShoppe.Com !

Enjoy 30% off All Regular Designer items at DesignerBagsShoppe ! Hot 30% Coupon Code : WELCOME

Designer Bags Shoppe is the ultimate high quality replica Designer Bags and Fashion Accessories e-Store with a comprehensive range of products from over 25 brands at your choice.

We offer the largest collection of mirror quality, superior AAA designer inspired replicas ranging from handbags, wallets, purses, belts, shoes, sunglasses, ties, scarfs to even fashionable jewelery and other accessories at the most economical prices for our valued customers worldwide. What you see on our site is exactly what you get and you can be assured of the product quality !

Some of the major brands include Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chloe, Balenciaga, Coach, Miu Miu, Christian Dior, Marc Jacobs, Fendi, Moschino, RayBan, Oakley, Chanel, Jimmy Choo, Versace, Burberry, Paul Smith, Prada, Valentino, Hermes, Chopard, Thomas Wylde, Tiffany & Co, Loewe and many more as we constantly update and expand our e-Store with the latest offerings ! You will be spoilt for choice at http://DesignerBagsShoppe.Com !

LV SPECIAL OFF ZONE
* Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Keepall 50 N41430 @ $178 , 52% off
* Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Mini Pochette Accessoires N58010 @ $69 , 59% off
* Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Noé N42222 @ $168 , 50% off
* Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Pochette Accessoires N51986 @ $88 , 56% off
* Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Pochette Bosphore N51112 @ $118 , 54% off
* Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Batignolles M51156 @ $128 , 60% off
* Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Bum Bag Bosphore M40108 @ $118 , 48% off
* Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Icare M23252 @ $198 , 48% off
* Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Mini Ellipse M51129 @ $99 , 50% off
* Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Pochette Bosphore M40044 @ $118, 61% off
* Louis Vuitton Monogram Denim Camera Bag M95348 @ $128 , 57% off
* Louis Vuitton Monogram Denim Cruise Mini Pleaty Raye M95333 @ $99 , 63% off
* Louis Vuitton Monogram Multicolore Pochette GM Black M60030 @ $69 , 57% off
* Louis Vuitton Monogram Multicolore Wapity Case White M58033 @ $69 , 57% off
..... and many more hot offers !

On top of our attractive wholesale price discounts, we also have an additional 5% Customer Appreciation Discount in place for orders with two or more items. This is to thank all our customers for their continuous support ! This discount applies for any two items purchased in a single order on top of other special offers and discounts that you may be entitled to ! Sign up as a member and accumulate a further 2% reward points for your subsequent purchases !

If you have consistent high volume sales, bulk purchases or other special requests, kindly contact us at sales@DesignerBagsShoppe.Com for a confidential discussion.

Do remember to visit us regularly at http://DesignerBagsShoppe.Com for the latest offerings and seasonal promotional events !

Hurry, 30% promotion (code : WELCOME) ends 31 Oct 2009 !

Faculty Great

Submitted by macfamous on Sun, 10/18/2009 - 11:07am.

I don’t know If I said it already Serunya Belajar SEO but this so good stuff keep up the good work. I read a lot of blogs on a daily basis and for the most part Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang just wanted to make a quick comment to say I’m glad I found your blog. Thanks.

cool post

Submitted by bulwark on Tue, 10/20/2009 - 9:45am.

This is something that I will find very useful, thanks!
Pest control Austin

Post review

Submitted by Jamaica willson on Thu, 10/22/2009 - 3:19am.

That's really a fantastic post ! I added to my favorite blogs list..
I have been reading your blog last couple of weeks and enjoy every bit. Thanks
Gourmet gift baskets and Mini blinds

Thanks

Submitted by christmassms on Sun, 11/01/2009 - 8:51am.

University of Minnesota has been serving the good news more than a century. LHC is very latest project and proposed to be best modernized project. Thanks for sharing the information.
back pain relief

Thanks for sharing this great

Submitted by moratmarit on Mon, 11/02/2009 - 9:25am.

Thanks for sharing this great article! That is very interesting Smile I love reading and I am always searching for informative information like this.
Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang | Business Blog SEO

The research work being

Submitted by christmassms on Tue, 11/03/2009 - 5:59pm.

The research work being carried out is really great and I appreciate all the pariticipant and best of luck for success. Discount Sunglasses

This article is very

Submitted by dubbyd on Thu, 11/05/2009 - 3:00pm.

This article is very interesting. Thank you very much for sharing .

inchirieri auto | fier forjat | balansoar fisher price | inchirieri masini | masini de inchiriat

good job

Submitted by alex on Fri, 11/06/2009 - 12:54am.

I don’t know If I said it already, but this so good stuff keep up the good work. I read a lot of blogs on a daily basis and for the most part Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang just wanted to make a quick comment to say I’m glad I found your blog. Thanks.