Several advantages are gained if the proton beam used in particle-induced x-ray emission (PIXE) analysis can be extracted into air and then used to produce sample x-rays. These include the ability to analyze large or fragile objects which are not suitable for mounting in a standard vacuum chamber. Beam heating of the sample can also be reduced by directing a stream of cooling gas onto the sample. This paper describes the facility implemented at the Lucas Heights Research Laboratories, and outlines some preliminary applications to the analysis of museum objects and archaeological artifacts.