LHC Expectations (Machine, Detectors and Physics)

Abstract

Starting in two years from now, particle physics will enter a new regime in terms of energies and luminosities, thanks to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN. This report summarizes the status of the preparations, both for the machine and the detectors, as of fall 2005. The commissioning and start-up scenarios are outlined and some highlights from the very rich physics programme are given, concentrating on measurements of Standard Model processes, as well as on early discovery scenarios. The prospects of B-physics and heavy ion collisions at LHC are also briefly discussed. The report concludes with an outlook on the ultimate physics reach and on upgrade scenarios.