China's HALF light source fires first electron beam at 2.2 billion eV

China's Hefei Advanced Light Facility (HALF) has produced its first electron beam at 2.2 billion eV. The fourth-generation synchrotron light source, built on a 192-meter linac, promises X-rays 100 times brighter than predecessors and is slated for completion by 2028.

• First electron beam reached 2.2 billion eV
• 192-meter linac with 35 experimental stations planned
• X-rays claimed 100 times brighter and more coherent
• Stations to include an EUV lithography platform; completion by 2028