Scientists at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva have transported antiprotons by truck for the first time. Antimatter, such as antiprotons, annihilates instantly if it comes into contact with normal matter, releasing energy.As part of the experiment, about 100 antiprotons were suspended in a vacuum inside a specially designed box, kept in place by supercooled superconducting magnets. The test journey, lasting around four hours, includes a half-hour drive, to see if the particles can be moved without touching the box’s walls. If successful, the antiprotons will be returned to the lab. It’s a first step toward eventually sending antiprotons to Heinrich Heine University in Dusseldorf for research. Associated Press quoted CERN spokeswoman Sophie Tesauri as saying, “The transportable antiproton trap is designed to contain the particles safely, even if the truck stops, accelerates, or brakes suddenly.”The antiprotons are tiny, with a mass less than 100 hydrogen atoms. Even if a particle touches matter, any energy released would be too small to notice without sensitive equipment.CERN, known for its Large Hadron Collider, has been studying antimatter for years. The Antiproton Decelerator, a unique machine at the facility, produces low-energy antiprotons for research. Previous transport experiments involved protons, but antiprotons require far stricter conditions to avoid annihilation.The trial will help scientists understand how to safely move these fragile particles over longer distances for advanced research.
