Happy Birthday, FRM II!

16. Geburtstag FRM II Der FRM II feiert seinen 16. Geburtstag. © Wenzel Schürmann / TUM

Der FRM II feiert seinen 16. Geburtstag. © Wenzel Schürmann / TUM

The birth of the research neutron source Heinz Maier-Leibnitz was a lengthy one: On August 1st, 1996 the construction of the FRM II started with the first spade cut. Almost eight years later, on 02.03.2004, it proverbially saw the light of day and made its first cry. At 14:01 it produced the first neutrons. Today, on March 2nd, 2020, FRM II will be 16 years old – a neutron source on the brink of coming of age.

During the last 16 years the FRM II has produced neutrons in almost 47 cycles for science, industry and medicine. About 1000 international guest researchers come to Garching every year to carry out top-level research. Internationality and interdisciplinarity have been in focus at the FRM II from the beginning. One of the greatest achievements of the past 16, among the scientific work, years is the production of radioisotopes used in cancer therapy. The FRM II makes a significant contribution to the success of treatment and the improvement of the quality of life of cancer patients.

FRM II: Modern, efficient and safe

The FRM II replaces its predecessor, the legendary “Atomic Egg”, which brought neutron research to Garching as early as 1957. For 43 years, until July 2000, the FRM I supplied neutrons – a respectable age for a top-class research institution. Today, Garching has been home to a research reactor for 16 years, which can be described as the most modern, most powerful and safest nuclear facility in the world.

16 years of safe and reliable operation of the research neutron source are a reason for celebration – and also an occasion to thank all employees and supporters who ensure this operation.

In this spirit: Happy birthday, FRM II!