A joint research station may appear at the Russian synchrotron "Siberian Circular Photon Source" (SKIF) and the Chinese HEPS. According to TASS, Evgeny Levichev, director of the SKIF Shared Use Center, said that cooperation agreements with three Chinese synchrotron facilities are planned to be concluded by the end of 2026.
Documents have already been prepared for cooperation with the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility (third generation), the Beijing HEPS, and the facility in Hefei (both fourth generation). As Levichev explained, the energy ranges of the Russian and Chinese synchrotrons complement each other. This will allow scientists to conduct joint experiments and make the most efficient use of both facilities, which were built almost simultaneously.
The readiness of the Siberian Circular Photon Source reached 99.7% by May 22, 2026, with seven first-stage stations equipped with unique equipment. By June 10, information emerged: the first experiment at the synchrotron – the synthesis of a new type of polyethylene – is scheduled no later than October. And by the end of the year, several synchrotron stations will begin operation with the participation of real researchers – not in commissioning mode, but in industrial mode. In March, it was also reported that Kazakhstan wants to join the SKIF project and adopt the experience of Russian science cities.
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