The goal of IMPACT (Isotope and Muon Production using Advanced Cyclotron and Target technologies) is the construction of two new target stations and beamlines at the Paul Scherrer Institute’s (PSI) high-intensity proton accelerator HIPA to increase the available muon rates by up to a factor 100 for much improved experiments in particle physics and materials science (HIMB) and to create radioisotopes suitable for advanced cancer treatments in the required quantities for clinical studies (TATTOOS). As part of the project, complementary infrastructures at the University of Zurich (UZH) and at the University Hospital Zurich (USZ) are planned to fully exploit the potential of these new installations.
Scientific Highlights & News
Novel Particle Beam Could Challenge Einstein’s Theory of Gravity
An intense, cold beam of muonium will allow researchers to test the universality of free fall.
Quantum material under pressure
High pressure enhances superconductivity in a quantum material and alters its properties. PSI researchers have uncovered the microscopic mechanism behind this effect.
Radiopharmacy: past, present and future
Radiopharmaceuticals allow some types of cancer to be targeted with tailor-made therapies. The current state of the art was preceded by decades of intensive research – and the future promises even better treatment options.