Compton back-scattering of X-photons from 8 GeV electrons at SPring-8

The experimental feasibility of using an intensive photon beam at the SPring-8 for producing a high-energy γ-ray beam is examined. Compton back-scattering of the soft X-photons emitted by an undulator and reflected back by a multi-layer mirror from the electron beam can produce a quasi-monochromatic γ-ray beam up to an energy very close to 8 GeV. The intensity of the γ-ray beam in the energy range of 6.6–7.8 GeV has been estimated at 2×104 per second. The energy shape and the scattered angle of γ-rays produced in Compton back-scattering of the soft X-photons from an 8 GeV electron beam are calculated.