Can Future Colliders Break the Standard Model?
Sep 14, 2026 · 23m
Summary
This episode explores the history and future of particle colliders, from early linear accelerators to the Large Hadron Collider. It details the search for physics beyond the Standard Model, including the absence of supersymmetry, and evaluates ambitious projects like the Future Circular Collider and the Electron-Ion Collider. The discussion covers the potential of these machines to probe new energy scales and resolve fundamental questions about the universe.
Topics discussed
Sponsorships and introduction to particle physics
The Future Circular Collider and the quest for new physics
History of particle accelerators: Linacs and cyclotrons
The invention of the particle storage ring and first colliders
Proton colliders: CERN ISR and the Tevatron
The Large Hadron Collider and the discovery of the Higgs boson
Supersymmetry and the hierarchy problem
Limitations of the Standard Model and need for higher energies
Sponsorship break
High-Luminosity LHC upgrades and timeline
Future Circular Collider: Higgs factory and proton collisions
US collider plans: Fermilab and the Electron-Ion Collider
Sponsorship break
The value of fundamental physics research
Patreon shoutouts and space filming logistics
Q&A: Merging black holes and event horizons
Q&A: Chandrasekhar limit and white dwarf collisions
Q&A: Sound quality in space and green screen tech
Sponsorships: Anthropic and Uber Eats
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