BSBF hosted visit to ITER – Wednesday 18 February 2026
Inside ITER: fusion energy in progress
On 18 February, BSBF2026 participants stepped inside one of the most ambitious international science projects. The BSO hosted visit to ITER offered a close up view of fusion energy in the making and of the scale of the challenge it represents. As Dutch ILO David van Walderveen observed, “The work performed at ITER is remarkable. So many parties work together to make one of the biggest science projects on Earth a reality.”
The timing could hardly have been better. Four of the nine sector modules are now in place, giving visitors a unique view straight into the vacuum vessel. Much work still lies ahead before ITER becomes fully operational, which also means many opportunities for companies that want to help bring the energy of the sun to Earth.
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED
BSBF2026 invites company representatives to a BSBF hosted visit to ITER in southern France, near Aix-en-Provence, where fusion research meets large-scale engineering to create tomorrow’s energy solutions.
The programme combines expert briefings on the ITER project and the European Union’s role, guided tours through key areas of the site—including the Assembly Hall, the Tokamak pit, and high-tech workshops, a lunch, and providing time for questions and peer exchange. The visit also highlights how companies can position themselves for ongoing and future procurement opportunities.
Programme*
Wednesday 18 February 2026
08:15 – Pick-up at the bus stop in front of Grand Hôtel Roi René, Aix-en-Provence (click here for pick-up location)
Private bus transfer provided by F4E
09:00 – Arrival at the ITER site, Gate C; badge collection at the F4E reception, International Organisation Headquarters (IO HQ)
Valid identification (ID) is mandatory
09:15 – Introduction in the lecture room by Leonardo Biagioni, Head of the Projects Department
09:45 – Collection of personal protective equipment (PPE)
PPE will be provided by ITER; clothing restrictions apply
10:00 – Site tour by bus
12:00 – End of site visit and return of personal protective equipment (PPE)
12:15 – Lunch at the HQ canteen with vouchers provided by F4E
13:30 – Coffee available in the lecture room
13:45 – 30-minute presentations by Benjamin Perier, Market Intelligence, and by Erik Brault and Eva Noukou, F4E Projects
15:00 – End of visit and bus transfer to:
* Grand Hôtel Roi René, Aix-en-Provence (approx. arrival: 16:30)
* Gare d’Aix-en-Provence TGV (approx. arrival: 17:30)
* Marseille Provence Airport (approx. arrival: 18:00)
Drop-off point can be chosen on the day; stops are fixed. Luggage may be left on the bus throughout the visit.
* Please note that the above programme is subject to minor change due to traffic conditions.
Participants are kindly requested to arrive one day prior to the visit, as the bus pick-up is scheduled for the early morning of 18 February at a central location in Aix-en-Provence in front of Grand Hôtel Roi René (click here for pick-up location).
Places are limited to 45, and participation is subject to approval by ITER and strict safety regulations. Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided, and clothing restrictions apply.
Kindly note that this BSBF hosted visit is intended for company representatives only. Private individuals cannot participate under the BSBF2026 framework. Visits for private individuals may be possible upon request directly with ITER, but these fall outside the scope of BSBF2026. The purpose of BSBF is to encourage and support company engagement with Big Science organisations.
Recommended hotels near the bus pick-up point:
Budget / functional (3★)
ibis Aix-en-Provence
Reliable, affordable option with basic but good facilities, suitable for short business stays.
Make your hotel reservation here.
Business / mid-range (3–4★)
Hôtel Aquabella & Spa
Comfortable business hotel close to the historic centre, good meeting facilities, restaurant and wellness area.
Make your hotel reservation here
Higher-end / more comfortable (4★)
Grand Hôtel Roi René Aix-en-Provence Centre – MGallery
Well-located near the bus pick-up point, higher comfort level, professional atmosphere, suitable for business guests.
Make your hotel reservation here
