Super Laser Nearly Complete (News-Press, Burrelle's)

Super Laser Nearly Complete

Newport News -- It has taken more than three months to assemble, but the most powerful free-electron laser in the world is almost complete.

Scientists at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility hope the laser will attract researchers from around the world and spawn a new type of high-tech industry.

But first they have to make it work. The scientists will soon begin a long process of testing and fine-tuning and slowly increasing the laser's power. If all goes as planned, the laser will produce its first low-powered light beam next spring.