Recently, China's major scientific infrastructure project, the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), has entered its final construction phase. The world's largest single spherical acrylic vessel has been completed inside its core detector located 700 meters underground, signifying that the main body of the detector is essentially finished. All installation tasks are expected to be completed by the end of November, with official data collection commencing in August 2025. The expected operational life of the facility is estimated to be 30 years.
Neutrinos, also known as "ghost particles," are among the oldest and most primitive fundamental particles, existing since the beginning of the universe. They carry a wealth of crucial, mysterious information. Due to their light mass, nearly light-speed velocity, and minimal interaction with other substances, there is limited understanding of neutrinos' basic properties within the scientific community. To make them "appear," a high-precision detector is essential.
The primary scientific goal of JUNO is to determine neutrino mass ordering. Its core detector is secured by a steel frame and submerged in a cylindrical tank filled with 35,000 tons of ultrapure water. Neutrinos captured by the liquid scintillator inside generate scintillation light, which is then collectively detected by photomultiplier tubes lining the inner walls. The light is converted into an electrical signal, making the invisible neutrinos visible.
Planning | Cao Si
Coordination | Zhang Zhe, Liu Zikui, Li Hengdan
Text | Nanfang Plus reporter Li Aiying
Poster copywriting | Fu Qianying
Hand-drawing | Liao Chunyan
Animation | Zhang Ruiwei
Editor | Liu Lingzhi, Jiang Chang, Ge Yuting, James, Shen He
