Tunable source of monochromatic, highly-directional x-rays and a method for producing such radiation

Abstract

In a first preferred embodiment, the invention is an apparatus for generating radiation comprising: means for generating a beam of electrons; means for constraining the beam of electrons to travel in a substantially straight path over a predetermined distance; means for generating a standing wave of light; and means for causing the beam of electrons to pass through the standing wave of light during a portion of the straight path, thereby causing certain of said electrons to emit radiation. The standing wave of light is preferably generated by a continuous wave beam of light that is circulating in a power build up cavity. In another preferred embodiment, the invention is a method of generating radiation, the method comprising the steps of U.S. GOVERNMENT INTEREST The U.S. Government has certain rights in this invention pursuant to Contract No. F19628-90-C-0002, awarded by the United States Air Force (Electronic Systems Division), which supported some of the work that contributed to this invention.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.