Scientists at CERN are preparing to test a new kind of vehicle inside the underground tunnel of the Large Hadron Collider(LHC).
These are not ordinary transport machines. They are specially designed superconducting karts that can move at high speed through the 27-kilometer tunnel.
The development comes ahead of an important upgrade phase known as Long Shutdown 3 (LS3).
During this period, the LHC will undergo major upgrades to become the High-Luminosity LHC, enabling scientists to study particles with greater precision and detail. With such large-scale work planned, quick, efficient movement within the tunnel has become essential.
Until now, engineers and technicians have used bicycles to travel through the massive underground passage. But that is about to change. The newly developed karts promise faster travel, helping teams reach work sites quickly and carry out upgrades more efficiently.
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Project leader Mario Idraulico explained the technology in an energetic tone. He said each kart is powered by 64 superconducting engines. When these engines are cooled below a certain temperature, they activate the Meissner effect.
This scientific phenomenon allows the karts to levitate slightly above the surface, reducing friction and enabling smooth, high-speed movement through the tunnel.
Early tests of the karts have shown positive results. To take things further, CERN is planning underground races to test different kart designs and performance levels. These races will help engineers choose the most effective model for regular use during the upgrade work.
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Safety has also been given careful attention. Safety coordinator Luigi Fratello confirmed that all drivers will be equipped with special protective gear called Safety and Health Equipment for Long and Limited Stays(SHELLS). However, when drivers jokingly asked if they could carry bananas during the rides, Fratello firmly rejected the idea.
The project has an unexpected origin. The idea for these futuristic karts came from a collaboration between CERN engineers and children from an on-site nursery school. The children created imaginative kart designs, which later inspired the engineering team to develop real versions.
Teacher Yoshi Kyouryuu shared her excitement, saying the children were thrilled to see their ideas turn into working machines. Meanwhile, school director Rosalina Pfirsich highlighted how curiosity is encouraged at a young age, noting that question marks are painted on school walls to inspire thinking.
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Beyond CERN, the technology may find wider uses. The organization’s Knowledge Transfer Group has already started discussions with a European startup, Quantum Mushroom, to explore possible applications in aerospace and future anti-gravity transport systems.
While the karts are designed to support scientific work, they also show how creativity, collaboration, and advanced physics can come together in unexpected ways.
