Investigating beneath Lake Geneva

This animation shows how different layers of the lake’s bed are being mapped as part of the Future Circular Collider (FCC) Feasibility Study

Two diagrams illustrating geological techniques side by side. Left diagram is titled "Sismique" and shows a boat on top of the lake, which is on top of the lakebed, with curved lines increasing in length being emitted from the boat. Right is tiled "Forage" and shows a flat raft on top of the lake with a straight line going from the bottom through the lake into the bed.Two techniques are revealing the geological layers beneath the lakebed. (Image: CERN)

As part of the Future Circular Collider (FCC) Feasibility Study, Lake Geneva underwater investigations have now begun. Taking place in 2025 and 2026, these explorations are using two techniques: seismic waves to analyse the geological layers beneath the lakebed and drilling to collect and study soil samples. The data collected will be made freely available to interested local authorities and researchers.

As part of a local information campaign, the FCC Feasibility Study team has produced a short animation to explain more about the process:

This animation explains how investigations under Lake Geneva are taking place in order to adapt the depth of the proposed project to the local geological characteristics. (Video: CERN)
 

These underwater investigations complement the ongoing underground investigations being conducted in the local area. To find out more about the schedule and location of these investigations, visit: https://fcc-faisabilite.eu/calendrier/