Let there be light! The $174-million Canadian Light Source opens

The Canadian Light Source synchrotron officially opened Friday, October 22, 2004. As one of the top third-generation synchrotrons in existence, the $174 million Canadian Light Source (CLS) synchrotron is one of the most advanced facilities in the world. It will enable Canada's synchrotron light users – in fields as diverse as biology, chemistry, geology, materials science, physics and medicine – to conduct international-level research and advanced technology work.

"Synchrotron light will be a tremendous boost to Canada's research capacity and will lead to tangible environmental, social and economic rewards for Canadians," said the Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport). "This world-class facility demonstrates the success of collaboration and Western Economic Diversification Canada is extremely proud to have helped secure the support of other federal partners for this project."

This image shows ATP (adenosine triphosphate, the universsal energy storage molecule) binding to a protein. ATP is involved in this protein's capacity to indirectly produce glucose. Scientists are studying this interaction to determine its relation to diabetes.

*Image courtesy of: Dr. Louis Delbaere, Department of Biochemistry, University of Saskatchewan

Western Economic Diversification Canada acted as a catalyst for the project, contributing over $25 million and helping bring together a consortium that includes the Saskatchewan, Ontario and Alberta governments, the City of Saskatoon, academia and industry.

Other federal partners include the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the National Research Council, Natural Resources Canada and NSERC, now also known as Science and Engineering Research Canada.


	Last Updated: 2005-12-21	top of page	[ Important Notices ]

WD Celebrates grand opening of the Canadian Light Source (CLS) synchrotron