Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies
The BedrettoLab (Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies) is a unique research infrastructure run by ETH Zurich making it possible to take a close look at the Earth’s interior. It is located in the Swiss Alps 1.5 kilometres below the surface and in the middle of a 5.2 kilometres long tunnel connecting the Ticino with the Furka railway tunnel.
Equipped with the latest technology, the BedrettoLab offers ideal conditions to conduct experimental research focusing on the behaviour of the deep underground when accessing and stimulating it. Such an access is required to advance scientific knowledge in various domains including geothermal energy and earthquake physics. It is also of relevance to develop novel techniques and sensors for these purposes.
2025-03-06
Public Guided Tours at BedrettoLab 2025
In cooperation with the Museum Sasso San Gottardo, ETH Zurich will once again offer public guided tours at BedrettoLab starting in summer 2025. The tours will take place on five dates and will be held in Italian and German.
The BedrettoLab, situated in a 5.2 km-long rock tunnel, offers a unique opportunity to study the geology of the Alps and visit a one-of-a-kind underground laboratory operated by ETH Zurich. In collaboration with the Museum Sasso San Gottardo, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the BedrettoLab on five occasions, guided by trained tour guides.
During the approximately two-hour walking tour, visitors will learn about the history of the Bedretto tunnel. They will also discover geological phenomena visible on the tunnel’s unlined walls, offering a tangible experience of the Alps' formation. Additionally, they will visit the geothermal testbed and gain insight into why ETH Zurich has chosen this unique location for geothermal and earthquake research.
Costs and ticket booking
The cost per person for a tour is CHF 25. Tickets for the following dates can be booked on the Museum Sasso San Gottardo website: www.sasso-sangottardo.ch/bedrettolab.
- Saturday, June 14
- Sunday, July 13
- Friday, August 8 (tours on this day in German only)
- Saturday, September 20
- Saturday, October 11
More information on guided tours: www.bedrettolab.ethz.ch/en/about/visit/
2025-02-20
Final construction phase of the new side tunnel has begun
The final construction phase of the new side tunnel has recently started. About 60 meters still need to be built using drill-and-blast excavation to complete the 120-meter-long tunnel. The side tunnel is expected to be completed in the fall.
Virtual Tour
Click on play and get a deep insight into the BedrettoLab.
Call for Applications: GeoInquire Access at BedrettoLab
The Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies (BedrettoLab) is now accepting applications for Transnational Access (3rd Call) under the GeoInquire program.
BedrettoLab offers unique infrastructure for cutting-edge research and technology demonstration in geo-energy and frontier geosciences. With GoeInquire, access to the following testbeds can be facilitated:
- Geothermal Testbed: For developing and testing geothermal energy technologies.
- Earthquake Physics Testbed: For studying seismogenic faults and earthquake mechanics.
- Deep Life Observatory (DELOS): For exploring life in deep subsurface environments.
Researchers can access state-of-the-art sensor networks, data archives, and modeling tools. Remote access options, including real-time data streaming, are also available.
Applications are open for one-week access grants, with technical and logistical support provided.
For details and application guidelines, visit the following link: https://www.geo-inquire.eu/transnational-access-offer/ta3-82-1