Making big science work: Behind the scenes of Sanford Lab?s experiments

Scientists at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (Sanford Lab) work deep underground to answer big questions about the universe. And that work requires a lot of support. Join Walter Weinig, Lab Director, to find out what happens behind the scenes at the next Deep Talk. The event, presented with the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center, will be held Thursday, Jan. 14, at the Visitor Center, 160 W. Main St., in Lead, S.D.

Weinig, a professional geologist and certified project manager for more than 25 years, joined the Sanford Lab team in October. Most recently, he worked with Golder Associates, where he helped manage several projects at Sanford Lab, including the Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment (LBNE) and the Long Baseline Neutrino Facility (LBNF). “They were some of the most challenging and inspiring projects I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to during my career,” Weinig said. His association with Sanford Lab from the early days gives him a unique perspective on the work that goes on behind the scenes.

Underground laboratories work hard to host big science experiments like the Large Underground Xenon (LUX) experiment and the Majorana Demonstrator Project as well as smaller research projects. Operations crews put in ground support, including rock bolts that measure up to 7 feet long; facilities technicians keep ventilation and dewatering systems running; engineers design caverns that are longer than a football field; shaftsmen haul load after load of equipment and supplies for construction and science; and infrastructure technicians maintain and rehabilitate 80-year-old shafts.

“The people in this community know the folks who do this work,” Weinig said. “This is what our friends and neighbors do. This is what has to happen to host world-class science in Lead.”

Deep Talks: Behind the scenes begins at 5 p.m. with a social. It is free to the public, although donations to support education events at the Visitor Center are welcome. Weinig’s presentation begins at 6 p.m. Light refreshments sponsored by First Interstate Bank will be served. Guests aged 21 and older may sample craft brews from Crow Peak Brewery.

Sanford Lab is operated by the South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) with funding from the Department of Energy. Our mission is to advance compelling underground, multidisciplinary research in a safe work environment and to inspire and educate through science, technology, and engineering. Visit Sanford Lab at www.SanfordLab.org.

Visit Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center at  http://sanfordlabhomestake.com