NEXT GENERATION LIGHT SOURCE R&D AND DESIGN STUDIES AT LBNL

Abstract

LBNL is developing design concepts for a multi-beamline soft x-ray FEL array powered by a superconducting linear accelerator, operating with a high bunch repetition rate of approximately one MHz. The cw superconducting linear accelerator is su pplied by an injector based on a high-brightness, high-repetition-rate photocathode electron gun. Electron bunches are distributed from the linac to the array of independently configurable FEL beamlines with nominal bunch rates up to 100 kHz in each FEL, and with even pulse spacing. Individual FELs may be configured for different modes of operation, and each may produce high peak and average brightness x-rays with a flexible pulse format, and with pulse durations ranging from sub-femtoseconds to hundreds of femtoseconds. In this paper we describe conceptual design studies and optimizations. We describe recent developments in the design and performance parameters, and progress in R&D activities.