The Ascension lab is located in one of the previously flooded areas of Atlantis. The Ancients used it to develop a means to rapidly evolve in order to ascend. A device in the center of the room, when triggered, causes the user to evolve at an accelerated rate, eventually reaching a point where they can ascend if they have the discipline; otherwise, it results in death. The room was discovered while searching the area for a device the Ancients turned back on when they were once again in control of Atlantis. (SGA: "The Return, Part 1")