Voice of Science: Prof Welsch puts OMA into the spotlight at CERN
A packed library at CERN was treated to a fascinating talk by Professor Carsten P. Welsch, OMA project coordinator and Head of the accelerator science cluster in Liverpool, on Friday 14 February 2025 . His talk on “Hollywood Physics” was an engaging deep dive into blockbuster movie-making and an overview of the latest research breakthroughs of his group.
From the outset, Professor Welsch captured the crowd’s imagination by highlighting how real physics often underpins the on-screen illusions in major films. Drawing on examples from big Hollywood blockbusters such as Iron Man, The Flash or Stranger Things, he explained that while cinematic storylines can take creative liberties, many studios are eager to maintain a semblance of scientific authenticity to heighten realism. This “Hollywood” angle provided a lively icebreaker, setting the stage for a broader discussion of advanced research within the QUASAR Group.
Prof Welsch presenting 'Hollywood Physics' at the packed library at CERN.
This included discussions around the beam gas curtain monitor, recently installed in the Large Hadron Collider, breakthroughs in antimatter research within the AEgIS collaboration, and how AI is driving advances in accelerator optimization and beam instrumentation. A dynamic Q&A session followed, with audience members quizzing Prof Welsch on the importance of scientific outreach, career progression to specific research techniques used in his group.
Prof Welsch said: “Stories in blockbuster films captivate global audiences, and when they’re grounded in real science - even if creatively adapted - they can spark lasting curiosity. Our job is to make sure that spark leads to greater understanding and perhaps even inspires the next generation of scientists.”
The enthusiastic response to Professor Welsch’s talk highlights the enduring fascination with cutting-edge physics and its interplay with mainstream media. By using Hollywood’s big-screen magic as a springboard, the event explained how science can transition from the realm of imagination to practical, world-changing technology.
For anyone interested in Professor Welsch’s background or in seeing photos from the event, please go to https://indico.cern.ch/event/1470941.