SLS – Swiss Light Source
The Swiss Light Source (SLS) is an X-ray synchrotron facility that has been operational since 2001. A comprehensive upgrade to a diffraction-limited ring was initiated in October 2023 and completed at the end of 2024. Currently new and upgraded beamlines are being commissioned in three phases. The upgrade ensures that research in photon science conducted at PSI remains at the forefront of rapid developments in medicine, bio- and pharmaceutical technologies, chemistry, physics, materials and advanced manufacturing.
Following the modernisation project, designated SLS 2.0, novel research and more precise investigations are now facilitated. With the implementation of this technical overhaul, SLS will continue to be positioned in the top tier of international synchrotron light sources.
Current operation status
Latest Scientific Highlights and News
Not every brain ages in the same way
Over a lifetime, our brain ages – in particular its volume decreases. However, the brains of some people display a greater resistance to age-related change and to the protein deposits associated with dementia.
Taking the fear out of cancer
Researchers at PSI are developing new technologies and drugs to eliminate tumours more effectively: with greater precision and personalised approaches
Sharper, smaller, brighter: Improved Focusing at PX III after the SLS 2.0 Upgrade
The first experimental results from the upgraded X06DA-PX III beamline after the SLS 2.0 upgrade show measurable improvements of the focusing capabilities. Comparing the focus size before the SLS upgrade and afterwards, the benefit of the new storage ring becomes immediately evident.