These are exciting times here at CHESS. It's always a good feeling to have users back on the experimental floor after the winter down.

The science performed by CHESS users continues to be spectacular. The articles on Shape Memory Alloys and Li-S Battery Operation are stunningly beautiful examples of multi-dimensional x-ray data sets being applied to challenging technological problems with enormous societal impact. The 3D structural model and local strain states of a shape memory alloy generated by HEDM coupled with sophisticated modeling enabled researchers to track the local stress states as the material responds to cyclic loading. The time-resolved study of Li-S as it discharges provides for the first time a clear picture of how these batteries operate. Both of these studies required CHESS's intense high energy x-ray beams and experimental support systems.

And, the CHESS-U upgrade is in full production mode. Magnet girders, front ends, hutches, and x-ray optics are all being delivered, characterized, and prepared for installation this summer. A prototype hutch (ID1A3) was installed this fall, received first light on January 31st, and first experiments are already taking advantage of the new capabilities and collecting data as I type. Stay tuned for more exceptional science!

Finally, CHESS continues to develop new x-ray optics technology. The article on DRIE of channels in germanium illustrates CHESS's continuing work on transformative new x-ray optical devices.

Please note that the date of the 2018 CHESS Users' Meeting has been changed to May 15th, 2018. Once again, in addition to the general meeting, CHESS will host hands-on technical workshops. Check the CHESS website periodically for updates.