Grimsel Test Site (GTS)
Information on suitable host rock formations, the functioning of the engineered safety barriers and the transport of toxic substances in the safety barrier system and the geosphere can be obtained through research projects in rock laboratories such as Nagra's facility on the Grimsel pass in Canton Bern.
International collaboration and exchange of know-how, projects covering all areas of geosciences and engineering and active dialogue with scientists during visits by the public and politicians are all aspects of the activities at the Grimsel Test Site – one kilometre deep inside the Swiss Alps.
The Test Site can be visited by interested groups between the middle of June and the middle of October.
Experience the virtual tour (commentary in English)
of the GTS on its dedicated homepage (www.grimsel.com).
Rock laboratory Grimsel
Räterichsbodensee
Grimselsee
Juchlistock
The underground rock laboratory is located at an elevation of 1730 metres above sea-level. From Gerstenegg on the Grimsel pass, it can be reached after a drive of around one kilometre through the main underground access tunnel of the local hydropower plant company (KWO). The laboratory is located at a depth of around 450 m beneath the Juchlistock. The branching tunnel system is 1.1 kilometres long and lies in the crystalline formations of the Central Aar Massif. The year-round temperature in the tunnels is approximately 13 degrees Celsius. The facility is open for all year scientists involved in the experiments. (Image: DesAir)
