Audacious science

European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)
Scientists look at computer screens showing traces on the Atlas experiment of the first protons injected in the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) during its switch-on operation at the Cern's press center on Sept. 10, 2008 near Geneva. Helium leaks later shut down the massive project while it raised "end of the world" fears among some of the public.
FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Images