The China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS) held its first annual meeting in Huizhou City, Guangdong Province from Sept. 11-13. More than 160 scientists and engineers attended, representing institutes of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the China Academy of Engineering Physics, the University of Science and Technology of China and the China Institute of Atomic Energy, among other organizations.

Prof. Chen Hesheng, project manager of CSNS, delivered the opening speech. He said holding an annual meeting is important for a large-scale scientific facility like CSNS, because it helps the organization summarize achievements, identify lessons learned and make future plans.

Prof. Chen noted that CSNS is currently in a critical period since it is not fully open to users. He said it is necessary to improve operations management by establishing operational procedures and making emergency plans. In addition, he said CSNS should focus on increasing accelerator power; work to meet users’ different needs; and, most importantly, achieve efficient, stable and reliable operation.

“The task is still quite arduous. I hope this meeting will deeply sum up the experience and lessons of the past few years and make full preparation for the next step,” said Chen.

Prof. Wang Sheng, deputy director of Dongguan Branch, later delivered a report on the commissioning of the CSNS accelerator, while Prof. Liang Tianjiao, deputy director of Dongguan Branch delivered a report on the target station. CSNS partners also described their experiences in beam commissioning and facility operation, and made suggestions for improvement.

Prof. Fu Shinian, head of the Accelerator Technology Division of CSNS, discussed the power upgrade scheme for the CSNS accelerator beam. Prof. Wang Fangwei, head of the Neutron Science Division of CSNS, discussed future development plans for CSNS neutron instruments.

Prof. Chen Yanwei, deputy director of the Institute of High Energy Physics (IHEP), congratulated the CSNS project on passing national acceptance. Expressing the appreciation of the entire IHEP leadership, he said that the joint effort of all CSNS personnel will ensure CSNS has a bright future.

“We are lucky we can rely on the strong economic foundation of Guangdong Province and Dongguan City. We are confident we will help promote economic development and industry advancement, and play an important role in bringing prosperity to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Area, ” Chen said.