Synchrotron light sources and free electron lasers

Synchrotron light covers a broad area of the electromagnetic spectrum, from infrared through to hard X-rays, and is used for research in biology, physics, materials and engineering, and structural and environmental chemistry. The range of materials that are studies is remarkably wide ranging from biomolecules to nanomagnets, and ancient Greek helmets to chocolate.

The techniques available include X-ray diffraction, X-ray spectroscopy (XAFS), small-angle/wide-angle scattering, soft X-ray spectroscopy, photoemission, and imaging.

Research carried out using synchrotron light sources is often complementary to that carried out using neutrons.  Further information on neutron sources can be found on the neutron sources page.

UK facilities

The Diamond Light Source (link opens in a new window) synchrotron started user operations in 2007 and has built on the knowledge developed at the Synchrotron Radiation Source (link opens in a new window) (SRS), which closed in 2008. On behalf of the UK government, STFC is the majority shareholder in Diamond. The Wellcome Trust (link opens in a new window) is also a shareholder. Scientists wishing to use Diamond should apply through the facility's own access procedure.

• Diamond facility access (link opens in a new window)

European facilities

STFC manages the UK subscription to the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (link opens in a new window) (ESRF). Seventeen nations work together at the ESRF in Grenoble, France. Researchers wishing to use the ESRF should apply through the facility's own access process.

• ESRF facility access (link opens in a new window)

Future facilities

A project has been launched to examine the case for a New Light Source Facility in the UK with unique and world leading capabilities. Further details are given on the New Light Source website (link opens in a new window).