SLAC began in 1962 with construction of a 2-mile-long electron accelerator that would take particle physics to new heights. Today we are known for conducting a broad range of research, leading large-scale science projects, and welcoming scientists around the world to come use our X-rays, lasers and electron beams for groundbreaking experiments. Learn more about our incredible scientific legacy, who we are and what we stand for, and take a tour to see it for yourself.
BOLD PEOPLE
We hold ourselves to the highest standards, continually looking for ways to improve our work, advance our skills and make the best use of our experience and talent. We celebrate our individual strengths and talents while acknowledging that we achieve more by working together.
VISIONARY SCIENCE
We explore radically new ideas with courage and confidence, bring an optimistic and entrepreneurial spirit to our work and achieve outstanding results without compromising safety, security or the environment.
REAL IMPACT
We open new windows to the natural world and build a brighter future through discovery and innovation. Our research helps solve real-world problems and advances the interests of the nation.
An illustrious past
SLAC history and legacy
Hatched in 1956, the bold plan to build our accelerator was known as project “M” for monster, the biggest government-funded science project built to date. While our research has expanded in many directions since then, the SLAC linac is still the lab’s backbone, generating incredibly brilliant pulses for our pioneering X-ray free-electron laser. Our path to becoming a multipurpose lab includes four Nobel prizes, the first website in North America and a stretch of highway to nowhere.
Public tours
Visit our lab
Sign up for an in-person tour at SLAC led by a guide who can answer your questions, sign up for a guided virtual tour or explore the lab on your own with our virtual tour any time.
