Construction of X-FEL Started at PSI
(Paul Scherrer Institute PSI, July 03, 2013)
In a festive ceremony, the Paul Scherrer Institute laid the cornerstone for its new research facility SwissFEL. The X-ray free electron laser is based on a novel technology holding exceptional promises for diverse areas of scientific research. The pulses generated by SwissFEL can be used to observe extremely fast processes such as the formation of new molecules in chemical reactions, but also to elucidate the structure of proteins or the inner complexity of technologically relevant materials. The new facility, 740 meters long, is expected to be operational in 2016. The costs of SwissFEL, over $ 280 million, are covered by the Swiss government and the Canton of Aargau.