Cutting-edge research in a whole new light
A unique research instrument is to be built at DESY in Hamburg: the 3D X-ray microscope PETRA IV. Scientists from all over the world will conduct experiments here that can only be carried out at this facility. This will lead to a fundamentally new view of the world around us and a new quality of approaches for finding solutions to pressing questions in society.
Research areas
Using the ultrabright X-ray light, researchers want to investigate natural phenomena and technical processes in new dimensions – from the millimetre range down to the nanoscale. PETRA IV will provide insights and knowledge and help to clarify urgent questions for the future:
Healthcare
How can diseases be better tackled?
New materials
How can we save resources?
Energy
How can we make more resilient materials?
New technologies
What do we need for the digital world of tomorrow?
Earth and the environment
How do we preserve our ecosystems?
Cultural heritage
How can we preserve our cultural treasures?
News
Research topics and news about developments in the project
Transfer and Innovation
Materials with special properties, new methods of energy storage, resource-saving agriculture or new, tailor-made medicines – PETRA IV will be the analytical tool that can enable the developments of such products and methods. This will allow companies to optimise processes, bring innovations to market faster and improve existing products.
Learn more
PETRA IV is to be built on the DESY campus in Hamburg-Bahrenfeld
The German Electron Synchrotron DESY has been operating its accelerator facilities there since 1959. For PETRA IV, the existing 2300-metre accelerator ring of the previous facility PETRA III will be modernised, and its instruments and infrastructure will be partially recycled.
Learn more