Scientists are exploring the bold concept of building a super-collider around the Moon, an idea that could revolutionise our understanding of particle physics and the cosmos. Similar to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN near Geneva, this lunar collider would accelerate particles to near-light speeds using superconducting electromagnets, then smash them together to observe the resulting high-energy interactions.
The primary motivation behind this ambitious proposal is the quest to probe deeper into the high-mass energy frontier, where many mysteries of modern physics remain unsolved. A collider spanning the Moon’s 11,000 km (6,835 miles) circumference could operate at energy levels 1,000 times greater than the LHC, potentially uncovering new particles and forces of nature.
One of the key advantages of constructing such a facility on the Moon lies in its unique environment. Earth presents numerous challenges for a collider of this scale, including geological instability, political boundaries, and limited space. In contrast, the Moon offers stable terrain, abundant solar energy, and a vacuum-friendly environment, making it an ideal location for such a high-precision instrument.
Despite these advantages, the project remains a distant dream. Engineers estimate that it would take over 20 years to build the collider, and only after a sustained human presence is established on the Moon. The cost would likely be astronomical, potentially running into the hundreds of billions, if not trillions, of pounds — well beyond £790 billion, the estimated cost of the LHC’s next-generation successor.
Nevertheless, the scientific potential is vast. A lunar collider could help answer fundamental questions about the Universe’s origins, the nature of dark matter, and the unification of forces — goals that current Earth-bound colliders may never reach.
While the prospect of a Moon-based collider may not materialise this century, it remains a powerful symbol of scientific ambition and human curiosity. With President Donald Trump having previously expressed interest in lunar infrastructure during his administration, such visionary projects could see renewed political support in the future.
