X-Ray laser utilizing gas jet

Abstract

An apparatus for generating stimulated x-ray emission. In accordance with the invention there is provided a means for producing a gas jet target capable of population inversion. Also provided is a means for generating an ion beam and a means for scanning the ion beam longitudinally along the gas jet so as to cause emission therefrom. The scanning speed is established as being substantially equal to the wavefront velocity of the emission; i.e., the speed of light. A hydrogen gas jet overcomes problems encountered using a thin hydrogen-rich foil. The hydrogen jet is not destroyed by the ion beam and the problem of making a suitable thin foil is eliminated. Also, by employing an appropriate beam density, the Doppler width is reduced as compared to the foil so that gain improvement can be achieved.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.