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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Measurement of X-ray Beam Coherence along Multiple Directions Using 2-D Checkerboard Phase Grating
Published on: October 11, 2016
Harnessing attosecond science in the quest for coherent X-rays
Henry Kapteyn1, Oren Cohen, Ivan Christov
1JILA and the National Science Foundation Center for Extreme Ultraviolet Science and Technology, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309-0440, USA.
New high harmonic generation techniques enable coherent X-ray pulses, opening doors to attosecond electron manipulation. This advances molecular studies and X-ray spectroscopy beyond current limitations.
Area of Science:
- Attosecond science
- Coherent X-ray generation
- Molecular spectroscopy
Background:
- Modern lasers provide coherent light across IR, visible, and UV spectra, enhancing spectroscopy.
- Generating coherent X-rays has been a significant challenge in laser technology.
- Existing molecular structural characterization relies on incoherent X-ray sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific advancements enabled by attosecond electron manipulation.
- To explore the potential of high harmonic generation for coherent X-ray production.
- To discuss implications for future molecular structural characterization techniques.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing high harmonic generation (HHG) techniques for X-ray pulse generation.
- Investigating the manipulation and control of electrons on attosecond timescales.
- Reviewing scientific literature on coherent X-ray sources and their applications.
Main Results:
- Emergence of high harmonic generation techniques as a viable path to coherent X-rays.
- Development of new tabletop sources for coherent X-ray generation.
- Enabling the study of complex electron dynamics in molecules and materials at attosecond resolution.
Conclusions:
- Attosecond electron control via coherent X-rays offers transformative potential for molecular science.
- High harmonic generation paves the way for advanced X-ray spectroscopy and structural analysis.
- Future molecular characterization may shift from incoherent scattering to coherent X-ray methods.
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