When electrons ride a wave

Conventional electron accelerators are an indispensable tool in modern research. But even smaller versions of these super microscopes are the size of a soccer field. Laser plasma acceleration could offer an alternative with a smaller footprint and higher peak currents. So far, the challenge with laser accelerators has been to create a reliable and stable electron beam, which is the prerequisite for applications. Physicists have developed a method to increase beam stability and quality.