Cornell University, in collaboration with Jefferson Lab, has proposed a novel X-ray source based on the energy recovery linac (ERL) concept [1, 2]. Such a source will exceed the brightness of third generation synchrotron light facilities and will also allow ultra short X-ray pulses and variable pulse formats, to enhance existing, and promote new applications in X-ray science. A multi-GeV ERL synchrotron source requires the extension of present state-of-the-art accelerator technology in several directions, e.g. CW high current photoinjector technology, superconducting RF cavity development, improved HOM damping, etc. To address these challenges, development of a 100 MeV high average current (100 mA) ERL prototype is underway. A description of the facility and the experimental program planned to address outstanding issues in ERL technology is presented. A successful completion of prototype ERL project will be of great use to various ERL projects being contemplated worldwide.

Author(s): Sol M. Gruner and Maury Tigner, eds.; Ivan Bazarov, Sergey Belomestnykh, Don Bilderback, Ken Finkelstein, Ernie Fontes, Steve Gray, Sol M. Gruner, Geoff Krafft, Lia Merminga, Hasan Padamsee, Ray Helmke, Qun Shen, Joe Rogers, Charles Sinclair, Richard Talman, Maury Tigner

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