Topic: Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) | SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

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They used SLAC’s ultrafast X-ray laser to follow the impact of a single electron moving within a molecule during an entire chemical reaction.

An illustration of X-rays scattering off the valence electrons surrounding ammonia molecules and getting captured on a detector.

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With a suite of reimagined instruments, researchers take up scientific inquiries that were out of reach just one year ago.

Large metallic machine in a lab, featuring valves, circular bolts, and digital displays with surrounding wires and tubing.

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Results obtained with SLAC’s X-ray laser show how tiny magnetic coils can align over a surprisingly broad timescale, inspiring new ideas for microelectronics.

Vibrant 3D model with red and blue wave patterns on a layered surface, depicting magnetization points, set against blurry background.

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Researchers used the upgraded LCLS to better understand what makes Xanthone – a powerful photocatalyst used in cancer therapies – so efficient.

close up of instrumentation in the TMO hutch

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Researchers taking the first-ever direct measurement of atom temperature in extremely hot materials inadvertently disproved a decades-old theory and upended our understanding of superheating.

$Graphic representation shows a pulse of yellow light hitting a lattice and diffracting into a spectrum of color$

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Ultrafast electrons at SLAC’s LCLS facility resolved the structural changes in a light-activated molecule to determine which simulations work best.

Graphic representation of several molecules floating through space, circle of papers representing scientific results

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Now 10,000 times brighter and thousands of times faster, LCLS sheds light on the formation of free radicals in nature.

a closeup of the target chamber of the RIXS experimental hutch

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Shweta Saraf and her team work to ensure the LCLS beamline runs without interruption.

A woman stands next to a large blue server rack filled with electronic control units, wiring, and monitoring equipment. She is smiling at the camera while using a stylus to interact with a touchscreen interface on one of the devices.

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One-quintillionth of a second lasing breakthrough could lead to next-generation X-ray technologies, improving imaging in medical, material, and quantum science.

A purple blob with black streaks and a yellow center.

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He met with SLAC staff and toured the lab’s cutting-edge facilities, diving into world-leading research in X-ray and ultrafast science, artificial intelligence, astrophysics and...

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Researchers aim to refine control room tools, improve training, and pave the way for smarter cooperation between humans and machines by studying how operators...

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Leading researchers met at SLAC on Pellegrini’s 90th birthday to honor his ongoing scientific legacy and to explore the future of X-ray free-electron laser...