UNIVERSITY students from all across the country have visited the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) site to explore the world of physics.

More than 20 physics undergraduates from 14 different universities across the UK attended AWE’s Physics Undergraduate Conference held at the Aldermaston facility on October 8.

During the visit, the attendees had the opportunity to visit AWE’s world-leading Orion laser facility at Aldermaston to understand how high energy density physics supports the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

The Orion laser facility is used to conduct research into high energy density physics phenomena, which occur at the heart of a nuclear explosion or the interior of a star.

Whilst at the site, the students were given a unique opportunity to present their research to AWE’s physics and science experts and to find out more about the diverse range of careers available.

Examples of their research areas ranged from investigating the properties of matter at extreme pressures, through optical fibres and pressure sensors, to random number generation.

Welcoming the students during the event, AWE’s head of physics, Professor Andrew Randewich, said: “It’s wonderful to be hosting this conference and welcoming these excellent students to AWE.

"Our physicists, like everyone else at AWE, are at the heart of our mission in UK nuclear deterrence and national security.

“AWE is a place where you can really grow your knowledge with extraordinary challenges and cutting-edge technology. I hope the students think of AWE as a great career option for the future.”