Chapter 2.3: Brief History of Synchrotron Radiation Sources in Brazil

This is a brief history of the development of synchrotron radiation sources in Brazil from a personal perspective. I tried to recollect facts showing how, in a time span of about 40 years, X-ray and VUV physics in Brazil took a big leap from small individual laboratory light generators to the successful completion of one of the most brilliant synchrotron light sources in the world. Over the years, many people contributed to this success story. But one person was very special for his leadership, deep multidisciplinary knowledge, infinite creativity and enthusiasm, and immeasurable kindness. This article is dedicated to the memory of Ricardo Rodrigues, who passed away in January 2020, at the age of 68…