SSRL experimental facilities are scheduled and managed centrally to most efficiently utilize the unique resources and to ensure that all visiting scientists have a productive experience. Users from universities, industries and laboratories around the world use SSRL to conduct experiments across a broad range of scientific, engineering, and environmental disciplines.
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Users conduct experiments at approximately 30 experimental stations which utilize extremely bright x-rays produced by SPEAR3, an intermediate energy (3-GeV), 500-mA capable, low-emittance, high-brightness third-generation storage ring. With a strong focus on serving the general scientific user community, SSRL provides access to beam lines, instrumentation, ancillary equipment supported by dedicated staff scientists and technicians.
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Synchrotron light is created by bending the path of electrons traveling the speed of light around a storage ring. These extremely bright x-rays are used by scientists to view the nanoworld, leading to discoveries in broad fields from biochemistry to physics. SSRL scientists and users conduct leading edge research that has broad applications, including: bioterrorism and drug discovery, energy efficiency and supply, environmental remediation (toxic waste cleanup), electronics, telecommunications and manufacturing.
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As one of the pioneering synchrotron facilities in the world, SSRL has served the scientific community for over 35 years by providing outstanding user support and important contributions to science and instrumentation. SSRL is primarily supported by the DOE Offices of Basic Energy Sciences and Biological and Environmental Research, with additional support from the NIH National Center for Research Resources, Biomedical Technology Program, and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences.
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