This paper discusses the use of 'magnetic bottle' spectrometers in laser ph
otoelectron spectroscopy. For electron detection both normal time-of-flight
methods as well as zero-kinetic energy electron detection with almost lase
r-limited resolution can be employed. Photofragmentation processes can be m
onitored via time-of-flight ion detection. A 'magnetic bottle' spectrometer
can be successfully combined with a molecular beam. To illustrate some of
the features, results for the photodissociation of OCS are presented. Highl
y rotationally excited CO molecules, and S atoms in their excited D-1(2) st
ate are produced. Rotationally resolved photoelectron spectroscopy of CO is
the key to a better understanding pf the dynamics of the photoionisation p
rocess. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.