The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) produces ultrafast pulses of X-rays millions of times brighter than even the most powerful synchrotron sources — pulses powerful enough to make images of single molecules.
When the first experiments begin in September 2009, this unique laser will also work much like a high-speed camera, enabling scientists to take stop-motion pictures of atoms and molecules in motion, shedding light on the fundamental processes of life on unprecedented timescales.
These characteristics will enable
frontier science in areas that include discovering and
probing new states of matter, understanding and following
chemical reactions.
A suite of X-ray instruments for exploiting the unique scientific capability of the Linac Coherent Light Source are currently being produced by the LCLS Ultrafast Science Instruments, or LUSI, project.
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