X-ray spectroscopy provides direct access into the nature of chemical bonds, from which the outcome of chemical reactions can be understood. For this, intense activities both at x-ray source development and implementation of new measurement methods is pursued by key research labs. Researchers at the MBI have now successfully combined a table-top laser-based extreme high-order harmonic source for short-pulse soft-x-ray absorption spectroscopy in the water window with novel flatjet technology. The