KPSI annual report 2019

This annual report from the Kansai Photon Science Institute (KPSI) provides highlights of the scientific and technical research that was conducted over the 2019 fiscal year. In the laser science field at the Kizu site, we have developed an optically synchronized stable pump laser and a new optical parametric oscillator, which will become seed technologies toward next-generation high-power lasers. In laser-driven ion acceleration research, we have firstly revealed the relationship between laser intensity and accelerated ion energy by taking the effect of the spot size into account. In the field of life sciences, new findings have been obtained through attempts to directly observe DNA damages for single molecules. At the Harima site, we obtained several excellent results such as detailed observation of electronic excitation of copper-oxide superconducting substances using resonant inelastic X-ray scattering and theoretical investigation of the magnetic properties of substances on a triangular lattice system, which may include geometrical frustration. In addition, regarding the social implementation of optical technology, we are making efforts toward practical application of non-invasive blood glucose measurement and laser-based tunnel inspection technology. KPSI will continue to fulfill its role as an open research center of the 'science of light' and will contribute to quantum science and technology and the strategy for innovation in Japan. (J.P.N.)