Electrons racing at near light speed right here in Dortmund. This isn’t science fiction. It’s the reality inside the Zentrum für Synchrotronstrahlung DELTA.
Welcome. DELTA stands for Dortmund Electron Accelerator. It is a synchrotron light source. It’s a tool for cutting-edge research.
DELTA is operated by the Zentrum für Synchrotronstrahlung. This center is part of the TU Dortmund University. Here, scientists explore everything from material science to advanced physics. They also train the next generation of researchers.
Let’s delve into what makes DELTA tick. The accelerator has three main parts. First, a linear accelerator shoots electrons up to 75 MeV. Next, the BoDo synchrotron boosts them even further. Finally, the electrons enter a storage ring.
This ring is 115 meters around. It usually runs at 1.5 GeV. The electrons circulate for hours. As they zip around, they are forced to change direction using strong magnets.
These magnets aren’t just ordinary magnets. DELTA uses special insertion devices. These include a superconducting Wiggler and two undulators. These devices generate intense synchrotron radiation. This radiation is the key to many experiments.
Scientists use this radiation to study materials. They perform lithography and explore condensed matter physics. Several institutions collaborate with DELTA. These include the Forschungszentrum Jülich and the Universität Siegen.
DELTA also plays a role in education. The university offers lectures and seminars here. Students can even write their theses using DELTA.
Getting here is quite easy. The Autobahn A45 and A40 are nearby. Take the Dortmund-Eichlinghofen or Dortmund-Dorstfeld exit. The university is well-signposted. The S-Bahn station “Dortmund Universität” is right on campus. The H-Bahn is another option. It connects the north and south campuses.
So next time you hear about advanced research. Remember DELTA. It is a beacon of science. A place where tiny particles unlock big discoveries right here in Dortmund.