Canada joins SESAME synchrotron project as observer state

Canada has become one of 16 observer states for the Synchrotron-Light for Experimental Science and Applications in the Middle East (SESAME) — the region’s first major international research centre. Canada’s participation will facilitate scientific collaboration on the third-generation synchrotron, which was launched under the auspices of UNESCO in 2002 and officially opened for users last month by King Abdullah II of Jordan. SESAME is modelled on the massive particle physics CERN laboratory which assisted in its construction. Full SESAME members include Jordan, Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Iran, Cyprus, Pakistan and the Palestinian Authority.