On May 16, the program "Experience China — A Visit to the High Energy Photon Source (HEPS)" was successfully held in Beijing. The event was hosted by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), organized by University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), and co-organized by HEPS of the Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). More than 40 international students from UCAS, representing 16 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, participated in the event. Through field visits, popular science lectures, and interactive exchanges, they gained an immersive look into the dynamism of China's scientific and technological development.

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During the activity, the international students from UCAS conducted study tours focusing on the two core components of HEPS: the accelerator and the beamlines. In the accelerator area, the guide introduced the device model and operating principles of HEPS. They engaged in interactive discussions surrounding the operation modes and experimental application scenarios of the facility, visually demonstrating the complex and precise engineering system as well as the power of technological innovation behind this mega-science facility.

Field Visit

Subsequently, the international students visited the beamline stations of HEPS, learning about the principles and applications of various beamlines, including the Transmission X-ray Microscope Beamline (TXM). Through on-site explanations and field observations, they gained a deeper understanding of the crucial role HEPS plays in fields such as engineering materials, physical chemistry, and biomedicine. They experienced firsthand the significant value of China’s major scientific and technological infrastructure in supporting original innovation, promoting interdisciplinary integration, and driving industrial innovation.

Popular Science Lecture

Following the visit, Hao Liang from the Institute of High Energy Physics, CAS, delivered a popular science lecture titled "Synchrotron radiation and HEPS". The lecture focused on the development history, basic principles, and technical characteristics of synchrotron radiation. Combining the development status of synchrotron radiation sources both in China and abroad, Hao Liang systematically introduced the construction background, scientific research positioning, and international cooperation of HEPS. During the interactive Q&A session, students enthusiastically raised questions, creating a lively atmosphere that further broadened their understanding of the value of sharing mega-science facilities and fostering international scientific cooperation.

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“I found the HEPS to be truly groundbreaking and remarkable. The facility is highly advanced and ranks among the top five synchrotron radiation centers globally. This demonstrates China’s significant contributions to the advancement of science and technology worldwide. This visit was truly inspiring, providing an invaluable opportunity to explore Chinese technology and innovation.” said Abera Ermias Koshuma, an international student from Ethiopia.