The 9th International Conference on Matter and Radiation at Extremes (ICMRE2026) ( ICMRE2026)

The Apollon research infrastructure is dedicated to advancing the frontiers of knowledge in key scientific domains, including strong-field quantum electrodynamics (SFQED) and laboratory astrophysics. Conceived in the early 2000s, Apollon was envisioned as a high-intensity, multi-beam laser facility in France, designed to enable cutting-edge scientific research and foster the development of laser technologies for the international scientific community.
In this presentation, I will first trace the journey leading to the creation of this unique Multi-Beam, Multi-Petawatt laser facility, a journey that began in 2006. I will then describe the initial experimental campaigns conducted at Apollon, as well as future plans for its development to meet the evolving needs of the global user community.
 

High Intensity Laser