# The Remarkable Survival of a Scientist Hit by a Particle Beam
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Chapter 1: The Fascination with Particle Accelerators
Particle accelerators have captivated the public's interest for many years. Among them, the Large Halogen Collider (LHC) is known for its ability to collide particles at extraordinary speeds. This technology has sparked imaginations, leading to speculation about the potential creation of tiny black holes or micro-universes that could pose existential threats to our planet.
The allure of particle accelerators lies in their complexity and the mystery surrounding them. Many people envision scenarios akin to those in Stranger Things when trying to comprehend mass particle acceleration. Questions arise: How do particles achieve light speed? What occurs at such velocities? Can they inflict damage at these incredible speeds? Furthermore, what would happen if someone were to be inside a particle accelerator when it activates?
Unfortunately, one Soviet scientist discovered the answer to that last inquiry in a rather harrowing manner.
This video recounts the incredible story of a man who survived an astonishing accident involving a particle accelerator.
Section 1.1: A Terrifying Incident
In January 1978, Anatoli Bugorski was assigned to fix a malfunctioning component of the U-70 proton synchrotron, located south of Moscow. During the repair process, he inadvertently leaned into the synchrotron. Under normal circumstances, this would not have been problematic, as safety protocols are in place for such equipment. However, the machine’s safety measures failed, and a proton beam was unleashed, striking Bugorski’s head directly.
The beam was charged at 76 GeV and was estimated to have delivered a staggering dose of radiation—around 300,000 roentgens. The beam penetrated through the back of his head, traversing critical areas of his brain, including the occipital and temporal lobes, before exiting through his left nostril.
Remarkably, Bugorski later described experiencing a flas