SLAC science explained

SLAC develops and deploys some of the world’s most advanced scientific tools for exploring how the universe works at the biggest, smallest and fastest scales. Here we explain how they work and the exciting discoveries they make possible.

Quantum explained: The fascinating world unlocking new scientific breakthroughs

Check out our quantum explainers to learn more about the intriguing quantum realm and how researchers at the Department of Energy’s SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory are advancing this field.

Superconducting Qubits

Quantum Sensing

Graphic with an astronaut on the moon with signal moving

Quantum Materials

illustration of a layered wedding cake and ingredients

Quantum Networking

SLAC Science Explained

The X-rays they produce reveal the secrets of everything from ancient texts to modern pharmaceuticals.

A synchrotron is a type of particle accelerator that produces intense beams of light.

SLAC Science Explained

Molecular movie-making is both an art and a science; the results let us watch how nature works on the smallest scales.

SLAC Science Explained

It will explore cosmic mysteries as part of the Rubin Observatory’s Legacy Survey of Space and Time.

SLAC Science Explained

Taking pictures of tiny, flash-frozen things with electrons is revolutionizing biology and technology. SLAC and Stanford host one of the world’s leading facilities for...