TAU Systems, a developer of ultrafast compact laser-plasma accelerators, reported it has successfully demonstrated electron beam production with its commercial laser-powered accelerator. The design used in the demonstration leverages TAU’s 100-Hz laser system, supplied by Thales. TAU said the demonstrations marks a first for a commercial system. "This represents a fundamental shift in how we think about particle accelerators," said Björn Manuel Hegelich, founder and CEO at TAU Systems. "Weve taken technology that typically requires massive facilities kilometers long and made it compact and commercially viable, opening new possibilities for industries that need advanced testing and research capabilities." Despite their effectiveness, the size and billion-dollar price tags of conventional particle accelerators have kept them largely confined to government laboratories and major research institutions. The demonstration, TAU said, promises support for industries facing growing demands for advanced testing capabilities. TAU identified industries including semiconductors, space, defense, and healthcare. TAU System’s commercial laser-powered accelerator. Courtesy of TAU Systems. The company is now focused on two parallel development tracks. The newly commissioned accelerator will undergo systematic ramp-up to full operating capabilities over the next few months, while the company continues to develop novel techniques for semiconductor metrology and radiation testing for space-bound electronics at the company's laboratory at the University of Texas at Austin. Integration of these technologies is anticipated for 2026, allowing delivery of comprehensive radiation effects testing services to commercial and government customers, TAU said. TAU announced its supply partnership with Thales in July, saying at the time that the first laser system would be installed at TAU’s facility in Carlsbad, California. The company raised $20 million earlier this year.
