European Spallation Source is a joint European project, like that of many large-scale research facilities such as CERN in Geneva. The European countries that are interested in building and operating ESS are forming a coalition and entering into a formal agreement with one of the countries that has offered to be host. Consequently, ESS is not an EU project.

ESS will become a multi-scientific facility for advanced research and industrial development. More than 300 researchers from 11 countries have taken part in the planning, which has lasted about 15 years.

ESS will open up entirely new opportunities for researchers within a large number of fields of research: chemistry, nano and energy technology, environmental engineering, foodstuff, bioscience, pharmaceuticals, IT, materials and engineering science and archaeology. ESS can be compared to a large microscope, where neutrons are used to probe various materials. High precision instruments will enable detailed analyses under realistic conditions.

ESS will enhance our understanding of nature. The results of research from ESS will be significant for future scientific and industrial progress.