The CERN Antiproton Decelerator (AD) Operation, Progress and Plans for the Future

The CERN Antiproton Decelerator (AD) is a simplified source providing low energy antiprotons for experiments, replacing four machines: AC (Antiproton Collector), AA (Antiproton Accumulator), PS and LEAR (Low Energy Antiproton Ring), shut down in 1996. The former AC was modified to include deceleration, electron cooling and ejection lines into the new experimental area. The AD started physics operation in July 2000 and has since delivered cooled beams at 100 MeV/c (kinetic energy of 5.3 MeV) to 3 experiments (ASACUSA, ATHENA and ATRAP). Problems encountered during the commissioning and the physics runs will be outlined as well as progress during 2001 and possible future developments.