CERN’s Large Hadron Collider Enters Long Shutdown 3

Science and Technology · Tuesday, 28 July 2026

CERN switched off the Large Hadron Collider to begin its 4-year Long Shutdown 3 for a .5 billion upgrade. The upgrade will convert it into the High-Luminosity LHC.

Quick highlights

Operated by CERN.
4-year Long Shutdown 3.
.5 billion upgrade.
To become High-Luminosity LHC.

Context

CERN began Long Shutdown 3 to upgrade LHC hardware.

Key Facts

LHC accelerates protons or lead ions near light speed. Upgrade will enhance luminosity and collision rates.

Significance

Enables deeper exploration of fundamental particles and origins of the universe.

Challenges / Way Forward

Complex engineering upgrades and international collaboration required.

Exam Angle

GS III: Particle physics, global scientific institutions.

Remember this

Organization: CERN.
Upgrade phase: LS3.
Future version: HL-LHC.
Cost: .5 billion.