Laser Researcher to Speak at Museum (Daily Press)

Laser Researcher to Speak at Museum

HAMPTON - More durable plastic. Metals with corrosion resistance that surpasses what's known. Intricate "micromachining" of materials on solar-powered spacecraft.

H. Fred Dylla lectured Tuesday, September 14, 1999, on applying the world's most powerful free electron laser to practical uses. The laser was developed at Jefferson Lab in Newport News.

Dylla delivered his lecture, part of "The Sigma Series," at 7:30 p.m. at the Virginia Air and Space Center, 600 Settlers Landing Road, Hampton. The lecture, titled "The Free-Electron Laser: From Laboratory to Marketplace," was free and no reservations was required.

The free electron laser is thought to be the world's most versatile high-power laser. The laser is 1 million times more powerful than a CD player. And it allows colors to be selected with precision - a crucial feature for harnessing work from the beam.

Dylla joined the Department of Energy's Jefferson Lab in 1990 to help plan and oversee the free-electron laser project. He also oversees the lab's other efforts to transfer newly developed technology to industry.