The MESA particle accelerator

Financed with funds from the Cluster of Excellence PRISMA – Precision Physics, Fundamental Interaction and Structure of Matter, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz is constructing a new electron accelerator.

The video shows the construction and operating principle of MESA, the Mainz Energy recovering Superconducting Accelerator. With an innovative concept, part of the energy needed to accelerate the electron beam is recycled. This principle can be compared with the one of hybrid cars, where the breaking energy is returned to the battery.

MESA will offer unique opportunities for experiments to tackle the pressing questions of particle physics, i.e., precision measurements of physical constants of nature or the search for the so-called dark photon, the discovery of which would provide important insights into the mystery of dark matter.

Test operation of some of the MESA components will start in 2017. The accelerator will be fully operable with the planned completion of the experimental hall of the new Center for Fundamental Physics research building in 2020.