The ISIS Spallation Neutron and Muon Source—The first thirty-three years

Thirty-three years of operational history of the accelerator and target aspects of the ISIS Spallation Neutron and Muon Source are summarised. Data on overall percentages of lost time and distributions of lost time amongst different equipment categories are presented. Areas of difficulty are also described, along with measures taken to overcome the difficulties. Further, on the basis of hard-won experience, recommendations for managing operations are made. Altogether, much valuable operational information spanning several decades is presented, and this should be of interest to designers and operators of large accelerator-based facilities.