The generation of X-rays and γ-rays based on synchrotron radiation from free electrons, emitted in magnet arrays such as undulators, forms the basis of much of modern X-ray science. This approach has the drawback of requiring very high energy electron beams, and km scale facilities to obtain the required photon energy. Compact, less costly, monochromatic X-ray sources may enable diverse, paradigm-changing X-ray applications ranging from novel X-ray therapy techniques to active interrogation of sensitive materials, by making them accessible in energy reach, cost and size. The Inverse Compton Scattering (ICS) interaction can be used as the source for generating high-brightness, monochromatic, and ultra-short X-ray pulses in a facility on the scale of university laboratories. A moderately energetic beam of relativistic electrons can up-scatter infrared wavelength laser photons to X-rays. Recent experimental advances in ICS will be reviewed. The coupling of an advanced accelerator with an ICS interaction point has been demonstrated by the collaboration of UCLA and BNL. In an effort to increase the total throughput of an ICS source, RadiaBeam Technologies and BNL have demonstrated a recirculated system, in which the energy of a TW laser pulse is recycled, driving multiple ICS interactions. These experiments and the demand for a high-quality X-rays pave the way for the development of a stand-alone commercial system at RadiaBeam Technologies.
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