Researchers achieve record-breaking attosecond X-ray pulse intensity

Scientists at the European XFEL and SLAC’s Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) have successfully generated and measured ultra-short, high-energy “hard” X-ray pulses with record-breaking intensity.

The pulses, estimated to last between 100 and 400 attoseconds, were focused onto areas significantly smaller than the width of a human hair. This breakthrough was achieved using an indirect measurement technique involving amplified spontaneous emission (ASE), which allowed researchers to precisely calculate the fleeting duration of the pulses.

This milestone enables the real-time observation of electron motion within atoms and molecules. By utilizing such rapid flashes, scientists can capture structural data before radiation damage occurs, potentially allowing for the future control of electrons during chemical reactions.