Exhibition on the Einstein Telescope opens at the FacThory innovation campus

An introduction for businesses and students

GENK – Today, FacThory, the new campus for smart manufacturing, opened its doors to a temporary exhibition on the Einstein Telescope. This interactive expo, organized by POM Limburg, provides insights into the impact of this scientific project on the Limburg economy and the broader Meuse-Rhine region. The exhibition also aims to stimulate entrepreneurship and inspire students to pursue STEM education.

The expo demonstrates how the Einstein Telescope creates opportunities in sectors such as high-tech, construction, manufacturing, energy, and logistics. With support from the provincial government, POM Limburg seeks to inform entrepreneurs about their potential contributions to the project and to encourage students to pursue STEM studies. “The Einstein Telescope opens the door to unprecedented possibilities for innovation and collaboration,” says Tom Vandeput, Deputy for Economy and Chairman of POM Limburg. “This exhibition highlights the many benefits of such an ambitious scientific project, including new technologies, innovations, and business opportunities arising from the development of the Einstein Telescope.”

Flemish Minister Jo Brouns adds: “The Einstein Telescope is not only a groundbreaking scientific project but also a unique opportunity for Limburg to position itself as a driving force for technological innovation and economic growth. This project opens doors for our manufacturing and high-tech industries, as well as for the younger generations who will shape the STEM education of tomorrow. Together, here in Limburg, we are building a future where science, industry, and education strengthen each other.”

Hologram
Visitors are greeted by a 2D hologram of Albert Einstein and led through an impressive tunnel into the world of the Einstein Telescope. The exhibition serves as an introduction to the pioneering project, offering a glimpse of what is yet to come. “We aim to inspire and mobilize both entrepreneurs and students to take part in this revolutionary project,” says Vandeput. “A wide range of skills and expertise is needed – from engineers and researchers to skilled labor – to make the Einstein Telescope a reality here.”

Economically, the arrival of the Einstein Telescope is a game-changer for Limburg. Hans Plets, Flemish project manager for the Einstein Telescope, explains: “The wide range of required technologies – including powerful lasers, cryogenic mirrors, the vacuum system, AI-driven data analysis, and sustainable construction techniques – will extend into sectors such as healthcare, aerospace, energy, and mobility. However, more important than the direct impact on the economy and employment is the development of the knowledge and innovation ecosystem surrounding the Einstein Telescope. This will contribute to productivity growth and prosperity for decades to come.”

FacThory
The exhibition takes place at FacThory on Thor Park, where smart manufacturing is the focal point. The site is a hotspot for smart, sustainable, and innovative companies, with a strong emphasis on the energy transition and advanced manufacturing.

Wim Dries, Mayor of Genk, states: “As Mayor of Genk, I am delighted that our city is hosting this impressive exhibition on the Einstein Telescope. This project puts Genk back on the map as a hub for innovation and collaboration. It is a privilege to offer both our residents and visitors the opportunity to experience this unique exhibition and to discover how science and technology are shaping the future of our region.”

Filip Vercauteren, General Director of Thor Park, adds: “We are pleased to host this temporary exhibition in the recently opened FacThory building at Thor Park. This allows visitors to also explore the possibilities of this unique facility. The exhibition aligns perfectly with FacThory and Thor Park as an innovative environment for start-ups in the manufacturing and energy sectors.”

The exhibition is open to the public on Sunday, November 3, 10, and 17, during the Open Sundays of the city of Genk.