VENUS time-of-flight neutron imaging beamline

The VENUS instrument is currently under construction at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS). Planned for completion in 2024, VENUS will be one of the most state-of-the-art beamlines for neutron imaging that will enable exciting new ways of studying a wide range of diverse materials for research programs in the U.S.

Neutron imaging is a powerful technique used to generate pictures of the internal structure of materials. The images, called radiographs, are similar to clinical x-rays that use contrast variations to reveal the internal structure of objects as neutrons are absorbed or deflected by different atoms inside a material.

Whereas the MARS imaging beamline at the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) utilizes a steady-state or constant beam of neutrons, VENUS will feature time-of-flight capabilities enabled by the pulsed-beam accelerator of the SNS. Leveraging the time-of-flight capability, VENUS combines the properties of transmission and sensitivity to elements and crystalline structures that will allow users to collect data on both the structure and behavioral dynamics of materials at the atomic scale.

For more information regarding VENUS, visit the instrument page.

Recent milestones

Physical construction of the beamline began in 2019. With the majority of the engineering design work coming to a close, focus has shifted to procurement and installation of major components. To date, major construction milestones include:

  • Installation and painting of the VENUS cave
  • Installation and painting of the beam stop and front-end roll-in shielding
  • Installation of flight tube downstream of Variable Aperture System (VAS)
  • Reception of the painted VENUS cave door
  • Reception and testing of all VENUS choppers (2 bandwidth and 1 T0)
     

VENUS time lapse

VENUS cave door test