Development of a Watt-level gamma-ray source based on high-repetition-rate inverse Compton scattering

A high-brilliance (∼1022 photon s−1 mm−2 mrad−2/0.1%) gamma-ray source experiment is currently being planned at Fermilab (Eγ≃1.1 MeV). The source implements a high-repetition-rate inverse Compton scattering by colliding electron bunches formed in a ∼300-MeV superconducting linac with a high-intensity laser pulse. This paper describes the design rationale along with some of technical challenges associated to producing high-repetition-rate collision. The expected performances of the gamma-ray source are also presented.