Tour the New Physical Sciences Complex

By Maryland Today Staff Feb 12, 2014

Take a tour through the new Physical Sciences Complex. Physics professor Chris Monroe will be utilizing this state-of-the-art facility for his quantum mechanics research. Learn more about how he is using atoms to create superfast computers here.

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The building has been under construction since 2010, and cost $128 million.

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PSC labs have extra-thick concrete floors to minimize vibrations, which can throw off sensitive experiments. Labs also have highly precise temperature control—within a half-degree Fahrenheit. Elevators and electrical panels have also been shielded to minimize electromagnetic interference.

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Perhaps counter-intuitively, astronomers are housed on the first floor, because they study the heavens, while physicists are on higher floors because they look down at smaller particles.