"Breakthrough: Superconducting Accelerator Energizes SLAC's X-ray Laser with Electrons"

Electrons are now flowing through SLAC's new superconducting accelerator, bringing the Linac Coherent Light Source II (LCLS-II) project one step closer to powering the world's most powerful X-ray free electron laser. This achievement marks a major milestone in the decade-long effort to build the facility, which will produce X-rays 10,000 times brighter than its predecessor, enabling groundbreaking scientific research at the atomic level. The accelerator's use of niobium cavities and extremely cold operating temperatures allows for highly efficient electron acceleration, while meticulous dust control measures ensure optimal performance. Although more work is needed to improve the electron beam quality, the team is optimistic about the project's progress.