High order harmonic generation in aligned molecules

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This experimental research program is aimed at using high-order generation in molecules by interaction of radiation from tabletop lasers for producing ultrafast, coherent x-rays. Unlike the extensive research on high harmonic generation in atoms, the experimental study of harmonic generation in molecules is still in its infancy. Many interesting theoretical predications are yet to be confirmed to understand the differences between harmonic generation in molecules and that in atoms. In particular, this work will study harmonic generation with aligned molecules. The Kansas Light Source laser, which produces three millijoule, 25 femtosecond or 0.5 millijoule, seven femtosecond pulses, will be used to conduct the research. The broader impact of the program will be both the basic atomic physics research and the applications of the ultrafast x-ray sources in biology and other fields.