Neutron Physics Entering the XXI Century

The objectives of todayʹs neutron physics are neutron-aided investigations of fundamental interactions and symmetries, high-excited states of nuclei, crystalline and magnetic structures, and dynamic excitations in solids and liquids over a wide range of energies. The present technology and prospects of solving neutron physics problems of great importance are analyzed. The main conclusion is that neutron physics currently provides rich information for nuclear particle physics, physics of nuclei, condensed matter physics, chemistry, biology, materials science, and earth sciences. However, in the coming century, new, higher flux neutron sources must be created. By the year 2010, the number of nuclear reactors used for physical research will shrink to 10-15 reactors in the world. Trends in the development of neutron sources are analyzed. The possibilities of leading neutron research centers in the world are investigated, and the most promising projects of neutron sources are discussed.