Speedy electrons for brilliant laser light: Research paves the way for compact, inexpensive free-electron lasers
Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) and Synchrotron SOLEIL have achieved stable, reproducible operation of a laser-plasma free-electron laser (FEL) in the high-gain regime. This breakthrough generates high-quality ultraviolet light flashes, addressing a key stability challenge that previously limited compact FELs. The work is published in Physical Review Letters.
Why it matters
This advancement could lead to more compact and affordable free-electron lasers, making powerful light sources more accessible for scientific research in fields like atomic, molecular, and materials science, reducing reliance on large, expensive facilities.
by Simon Schmitt, Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add as preferred source In the undulator, the electron beam from a compact laser-plasma accelerator interacts with a laser pulse. This interaction enhances the generated FEL radiation and enables higher pulse energies. Credit: HZDR/Blaurock Extremely short, intense light flashes are in high demand to investigate atoms, molecules and new materials. Free-electron lasers (FELs) produce these flashes. But around the world, beam time available at large-scale user facilities is in short supply, and waiting times are long.
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