Skip to main content

Data Format and Access

As part of the ATLAS open data project, the ATLAS Collaboration releases data in multiple formats, adapting to the needs of a wide range of users. Understanding each format is necessary to use the data effectively.

Diverse Data Formats for Varied Purposes​

The ATLAS detector generates data that summarizes the details of particle collisions. To make this data accessible for a wide range of uses, it is provided in formats suitable for distinct applications:

  • Ntuple Files for Education: In releases aimed at educational and outreach activities, ntuple files are used for their simplicity and ease of access. These files present data in a structured format, ensuring that learners can engage with and analyze the data without the need for complex processing tools.
  • PHYSLITE Files for Research: When addressing the needs of the research community, ATLAS has chosen to release data in the PHYSLITE format. PHYSLITE provides a compact and efficient representation of data, retaining the key information necessary for scientific analysis. This format is intended to work easily with sophisticated data analysis frameworks employed by the ATLAS Collaboration.

Ensuring Accessibility Across the Board​

The goal of the ATLAS Open Data initiative is to make particle physics data available in a way that is usefull to both the scientific community and a more general public. Whether it’s for learning or research, the data formats are chosen to facilitate the user experience. the ATLAS Collaboration remains committed to providing the community with data that is compatible with the current landscape of scientific analysis. As we look to the future, we anticipate the introduction of new data formats that will continue to support the evolving demands of particle physics research and education.