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Requesting Beamtime

OrientExpress is a support instrument.  It is not scheduled like other instruments.

OrientExpress is not free to use at any time. A time request for OrientExpress must be submitted.

  • Time allocation on OrientExpress is very flexible, but there are limits.   
  • Please submit your request as soon as possible before you need OrientExpress.
  • Same-day allocation is not guaranteed, especially on weekends.
  • Out-of-hours and weekend access may be arranged if a request is made well in advance.

All submissions require a local contact.  Be sure to liaise with your local contact when making your submission, and for your OrientExpress requirements before and during a measurement.

Sometimes users may be asked to defer or share their time depending on priorities.  In that event, the corresponding local contacts and the OrientExpress responsible will strive to find the best compromise such that everyone gets the time they need.  Should that occur to you, we ask for your patience and understanding.

There are two routes to request beam time on OrientExpress:

  1. If the sample is linked to an accepted proposal (ILL or CRG), please fill in and submit the web form.  Your local contact for the accepted proposal will also be your local contact for OrientExpress.
  2. If the sample is not linked to an accepted proposal (ILL or CRG), please fill in an EASY proposal on the ILL User Club.  Make sure you find a local contact before submitting.