Plasma Science and Fusion Center Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
|||
|
|||
high-energy-density physics |
|||
|
High-Energy-
Density Physics |
The High-Energy-Density Physics Division, headed by Dr. Richard Petrasso,
studies the physics of inertial-confinement fusion (ICF) plasmas and high-energy-density plasmas using experimental and theoretical methods developed by MIT and collaborators.
ICF experiments utilizing special nuclear diagnostics are currently performed at the OMEGA laser facility at the University of Rochester Laboratory for Laser Energetics. The division is also involved in defining the nuclear-diagnostic suite for the National Ignition Facility (currently under construction at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory). Special nuclear diagnostics make it possible to determine the spatial and temporal variations in fusion burn and in plasma area densities through spectral, temporal, and imaging measurements of fusion products and other ions. These measurements are then used to study a wide variety of physics processes and issues such as laser-plasma interactions, the relationship of implosion symmetry to laser drive symmetry, the timing of shock wave coalescence, the effects of mix on convergence and burn profiles, the effects of hydrodynamic instabilities, and the accuracy of hydrodynamic simulations.
In addition, experiments are being designed for studying the transport of energetic electrons in materials relevant for “Fast Ignitor” ICF scenarios. Theoretical work has involved studies of the slowing down of charged particles in plasmas and the transport of energetic electrons in solids and plasmas. The focus of the work is developing novel diagnostics, furthering the understanding of ICF physics, and pursuing ignition. Another important goal is the education and training of young scientists and students.
New Paper in Science about our Work
This schematic drawing shows the monoenergetic proton radiography system MIT physicists
Part of the HEDP/ICF team in the experiment planning room, around 11 PM,
|
||