The original ATLAS LEGO model

The ATLAS detector is searching for new discoveries in the head-on collisions of protons of extraordinarily high energy. ATLAS will learn about the basic forces that have shaped our Universe since the beginning of time and that will determine its fate. Among the possible unknowns are the origin of mass, extra dimensions of space, unification of fundamental forces, and evidence for dark matter candidates in the Universe.
If you want to know more about the ATLAS experiment, visit the ATLAS web site and/or follow us on Twitter and YouTube.

In fall 2011, Sascha Mehlhase designed a model of the ATLAS experiment made entirely of LEGO bricks. It illustrates all details, from the muon and magnet system to the innermost pixel detector and is a great eye-catcher for all generations. Here’s some key data:
2011-11-10 10-22-24 ATLAS model

  • about 9500 pieces
  • roughly 50:1 in scale
    (close to scale with the LEGO man)
  • material cost of about 2000 Euros
    (payed by the high energy physics group at the Niels Bohr Institute)
  • about 1 m x 0.5 m x 0.5 m in size
  • approximately 33 hours construction time
    (spread out over several weekends and after hours)
  • around 48 hours to build a rough 3D model
    (a one-timer though)

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Sascha Mehlhase.

For more details have a look here: