Scientists have discovered safe methods for transporting antimatter. Learn why this is important and what antimatter actually is.

Physicists from CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research) have successfully transported ordinary subatomic particles for the first time using a new setup to test the method of transporting antimatter to other laboratories. This is essential for studying antimatter with even greater precision, reports ScienceAlert.

Antimatter is the mirror twin of ordinary matter. The main difference between them lies in the fact that particles and antiparticles have opposite charges. When antimatter particles interact with ordinary matter particles, even those in the air, annihilation occurs, releasing energy.

As a result, antimatter exists only for a short time and is extremely challenging to study. At CERN, physicists produce antimatter in the Antiproton Decelerator synchrotron, which slows down antiprotons. After this, the antimatter is transferred to nearby facilities for research.

According to scientists, to better understand the fundamental properties of antiprotons, which are antiparticles of protons, equipment from other laboratories needs to be utilized.

To store antimatter for an extended period, it must be placed in a container with a strong electromagnetic field to prevent it from touching the walls. However, antimatter does not transport well over long distances, as antiparticles can simply annihilate the container during a prolonged move.

Thus, physicists have created a special trap for antimatter, named BASE-STEP. This trap can store antimatter for long durations, allowing it to be transported over greater distances.

BASE-STEP is a portable version of the Antiproton Decelerator measuring 1.9 meters long, making it five times smaller than the synchrotron for slowing down antiprotons. This container is designed to protect antiparticles from impacts and vibrations.

Physicists tested this device while transporting ordinary protons on a truck within the CERN premises. The particles successfully survived the journey without combining, which means, according to the physicists, that antiprotons will also be able to withstand transport to another laboratory.

BASE-STEP includes a vacuum chamber for storing antiparticles, a superconducting magnet to create electromagnetic fields, a cooling system for the magnet, and batteries to ensure everything operates smoothly.

Now, scientists plan to conduct a trial transport of antimatter particles next year. Physicists aim to be able to transport antimatter to any laboratory in Europe where antiparticles can be studied with 100% accuracy.