Special guided tours
The Visitor Centre psi forum offers special guided tours to the PSI infrastructure facilities and about PSI's contribution to the safe use of nuclear energy. The tours are available for visitors from the age of 16.
PSI infrastructure facilities- behind the scenes of research
The energy consumption of the Paul Scherrer Institute corresponds to that of a city with 38 000 inhabitants. The modern infrastructure facilities of Switzerland's largest research centre are designed accordingly. They supply the electricity, cooling water and heat that are essential for the operation of the large research facilities.
During the tour you will gain exciting insights into PSI’s electricity and heat supply. Did you know, for example, that a reserve cogeneration plant for the district heating network Lower Aare Valley is operated by PSI? What happens in case of a power outrage? How do the cooling systems at PSI work? These and other questions will be answered during this special tour.
Safe use of nuclear energy – material studies in the hot lab
PSI operates the only hot lab in Switzerland for experiments involving radioactive substances and materials. PSI researchers focus on measurements and analyses for research purposes as well as services for operators of nuclear power plants. When handling the material, staff use special gripping arms and work behind thick lead glass windows.
The hot lab tour is suitable for people aged 16 and over.