World’s biggest X-ray laser sees first light, to capture images at atomic level

Associated Press, Berlin | By
May 04, 2017 06:54 PM IST

Scientists hope the project will open up new areas of research, such as mapping the molecular structure of new drugs and seeing biochemical reactions in real time.

Scientists said they had switched on the world’s biggest X-ray laser, designed to capture images of structures and processes at the atomic level.

The European XFEL laser in Hamburg. northern Germany.(AP File Photo)
The European XFEL laser in Hamburg. northern Germany.(AP File Photo)

The DESY research center near Hamburg, Germany, said bringing the laser to life for the first time “marks a new era of research in Europe.”

Operators say the first laser pulse lasted one second, a frequency that will be increased to 27,000 flashes per second by the start of September, when it officially opens for research.

Scientists hope the European XFEL project will open up new areas of research, such as mapping the molecular structure of new drugs and seeing biochemical reactions in real time.

Institutions from Germany, France, Italy, Poland, Russia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland are involved in the project.

Unlock a world of Benefits with HT! From insightful newsletters to real-time news alerts and a personalized news feed – it's all here, just a click away! - Login Now!

Get Latest World News along with Latest News from India at Hindustan Times.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
×
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
My Offers
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Saturday, March 23, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Register Free and get Exciting Deals