MSMS turns 30

Thirty years after its 1996 publication, MSMS, our program for computing molecular surfaces, is still in use, including in geometric deep-learning research.
Published

November 10, 2026

After 30 years, the MSMS water probe is still rolling!

Thirty years ago, Michel Sanner introduced MSMS, a program for computing molecular surfaces.

Originally developed for molecular modeling and visualization, MSMS remains in use today, including in modern geometric deep-learning research.

We are pleased to celebrate this milestone and grateful to the community that has continued to use and build upon MSMS over the years.

Watch the full video and read the anniversary story →