38 research outputs found
Short SASE-FEL Pulses at FLASH
FLASH is a high-gain free-electron laser (FEL) in thesoft x-ray range. This paper discusses the generation ofvery short FEL pulses in the Self-Amplified SpontaneousEmission (SASE) - mode without an external seeding signal.In the optimal case a SASE-FEL can be operated inthe so-called single-spike mode. At FLASH a new photoinjectorlaser has been commissioned, which allows thegeneration of shorter bunches with low bunch charge directlyat the photo-cathode. This shorter injector laser reducesthe required bunch compression for short pulses andthus allows a stable SASE performance with shorter pulses.First SASE performance using the new injector laser hasbeen demonstrated and electron bunch and FEL radiationproperties have been measured. These measurements arepresented and next steps towards single spike operation arediscussed