New Light Source Project
aiming for unique studies of microscopic motions in matter of all kinds
A New Light Source, building on the very latest photon source technology, will allow us to conduct unique studies of the microscopic motions that occur within matter of all kinds. The exceptional brightness and coherence of the light will permit other unprecedented research that will have the potential for revolutionary advances in science and technology.
We are developing a case for a New Light Source (NLS) Facility, based on advanced conventional and free electron lasers, with unique and world leading capabilities. A review took place in 2008 of the underpinning science case for next generation light sources of this kind via a consultation with a broad community of scientists and technologists. The NLS Science Case is available via the link NLS Science Case
The key science drivers defined through that consultation process were:
IMAGING NANOSCALE STRUCTURES.
Instantaneous images of nanoscale objects can be recorded at any desired instant allowing, for example, nanometer scale resolution of sub-cellular structures in living systems.
CAPTURING FLUCTUATING AND RAPIDLY EVOLVING SYSTEMS.
Rapid intrinsic evolution and fluctuations in the positions of the constituents within matter can be characterized.
STRUCTURAL DYNAMICS UNDERLYING PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL CHANGES.
The structural dynamics governing physical, chemical and biochemical processes can be followed by using laser pump- X-ray probe techniques.
ULTRA-FAST DYNAMICS IN MULTI-ELECTRON SYSTEMS.
New approaches to measuring the multi-electron quantum dynamics, that are present in all complex matter, will become possible.
To address this science the following baseline specification has emerged for the facility:
- High brightness (up to 1012 photons/pulse) pulsed coherent light source coverage from THz to ~1 keV (with harmonics to ~5 keV)
- ~1 kHz repetition rate with even pulse spacing
- Photon source capable of smooth tuning across most of the spectral range
- Pulse durations down to ~20 fs
- Two-colour capability for pump probe experiments with synchronistaion jitter better than 10 fs. For example, Colour 1: THz- IR (pump)/ Colour 2: 100 eV-5 keV (probe)
- High degree of transverse coherence
- High degree of temporal coherence up to 400 eV, extending to >1 keV as seeding sources improve
- Synchronised to short pulsed lasers
If built, this facility would be a world leading soft-X-ray to THz short pulse light source with a deep impact across the sciences. The project takes the long view of the science, looking at the high level science objectives that are likely to be of importance for decades. In addition, an important aspect of the project will be the possibility to extend to higher photon energies, higher repetition rates and shorter pulses in subsequent stages.
Continuing input: the project encourages continued input to the NLS Science Case from the science community. Please input your views on NLS requirements directly to the project leader Jon Marangos, to one of the science co-ordinators, or via the Science Consultation web form.
