SwissFEL Instrument Bernina
The Bernina instrument is specialized for studying ultrafast phenomena in condensed matter systems with high specificity in laser excitation and X-ray probes.
The X-ray beamline design emphasizes experimental stability with state-of-the-art X-ray optical elements and single pulse diagnostics which should ensure stable FEL beam pointing and femtosecond timing over days.
A flexible diffractometer platform allows to apply different resonant and non-resonant X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy techniques in combination with heavy load sample environments like low temperature cryostats or magnets.
A large range from THz to UV light pulses can be used to specifically excite specimens in pump/probe experiments.
The versatile instrument is operated by the Bernina Group.
Status: The Bernina Instrument welcomes users. Calls for experiment proposals end in March and September. Please visit the call website for details on the upcoming call.
Current Highlights and News
The secret life of an electromagnon
SwissFEL sheds light on how lattice and atomic spins jiggle together.
Strong modulation of carrier effective mass in WTe2 via coherent lattice manipulation
Schematic ultrafast surface diffraction setup used for monitoring the crystal lattice in multiple directions.
Anomalous temperature dependence of the experimental x-ray structure factor of supercooled water
Supercooled water scattering signals show an anolmalous structure factor temperature dependence suggesting decreasing density at lowering temperatures below 236 K (-37°C).