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DESY Visitor Centre strives to simplify advanced research for the general public

Construction Commencement at Science City Bahrenfeld: foundation laid for the DESYUM visitor center, which will utilize residual heat from particle accelerators for heating purposes.

DESY Visitor Centre intends to simplify top-tier research for public comprehension
DESY Visitor Centre intends to simplify top-tier research for public comprehension

DESY Visitor Centre strives to simplify advanced research for the general public

The German Electron Synchrotron (DESY) in Hamburg is set to gain a new visitor center called DESYUM. Located prominently on the campus of Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld, the six-story building is scheduled to open its doors in 2025.

The groundbreaking ceremony for DESYUM took place on May 31, 2023. The project, costing €33 million, will be funded 90% by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and 10% by the city of Hamburg.

The building's design, by the Hamburg architectural firm HPP Architects, is inspired by DESY's particle accelerator, featuring curves and circles. This design philosophy is also reflected in the layout, rooftop terrace, and facade of DESYUM.

DESYUM will serve as a hub for researchers and enthusiasts to exchange ideas. It will house accommodations for visiting researchers, as well as a large atrium, cafeteria, offices, and spaces for events and gatherings. Additionally, a multimedia exhibition will explain research in an accessible way.

The building will be constructed to the BNB sustainability standard. This includes using recycled aluminum in the facade, reducing concrete usage by 30% through innovative construction techniques, and featuring a biodiverse green roof.

The architecture firm responsible for the construction of the DESY visitor center DESYUM is Atelier Dreiseitl. The project is part of Science City Bahrenfeld, a cooperation for innovation and transfer.

Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein are strengthening their scientific cooperation, and the "Calls for Transfer" program is supporting Hamburg science projects again. The DESY research center has recently received the "Hamburg 2040" award.

For more information about DESYUM, visit desy.de. The visitor center is set to become an exciting addition to the scientific community in Hamburg.

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