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Magnetics and Radiation Sources (MaRS)

The Magnetics and Radiation Sources (MaRS) Group, part of the Accelerator Science and Technology Centre (ASTeC), is driving innovation in particle accelerator technology. Our mission is to design advanced magnetic systems, accelerator-based light sources, and intelligent software solutions that power the next generation of scientific discovery.

What We Do

  • Magnet Design & Beam Control

We engineer cutting-edge magnet technologies that deliver precise beam control while reducing energy consumption—making future accelerators more efficient and sustainable.

  • Next-Generation Light Sources

Our team develops Free Electron Lasers (FELs) and other radiation sources, enabling ultra-bright, ultra-fast photon pulses for breakthroughs in physics, chemistry, and life sciences.

  • Software Development & Machine Learning

We create sophisticated simulation tools and control systems, leveraging machine learning to optimize accelerator performance, predict system behaviour, and accelerate design cycles.

  • Magnet Test Laboratory

Our dedicated Magnet Test Lab provides state-of-the-art facilities for precision measurement and validation of magnet systems, ensuring reliability and performance before deployment.

Global Collaboration

We partner with leading research facilities like CERN and Diamond Light Source, and collaborate with universities to pioneer FEL lasing schemes and advanced computational techniques.

Innovation Testbed

The CLARA FEL Test Facility is our proving ground for new ideas—where hardware, software, and AI-driven solutions are tested and refined before deployment

Key Projects

  • CLARA FEL Test Facility – Driving FEL innovation and performance testing.
  • The ZEPTO Project – Developing ultra-efficient magnet systems.
  • Superconducting Undulators – Enhancing light source capabilities.
  • AI-Driven Accelerator Control – Applying machine learning for smarter, adaptive systems.
  • Magnet Test Laboratory – Precision testing and validation of magnet technologies.