Quasi-static magnetic-fields up to 800 T are generated in the interaction of intense laser pulses (500 J, 1 ns, − 10 W cm 17 2 ) with capacitor-coil targets of different materials. The reproducible magnetic-field peak and rise-time, consistent with the laser pulse duration, were accurately inferred from measurements with GHz-bandwidth inductor pickup coils (B-dot probes). Results from Faraday rotation of polarized optical laser light and deflectometry of energetic proton beams are consistent with the B-dot probe measurements at the early stages of the target charging, up to ≈ t 0.35 ns, and then are disturbed by radiation and plasma effects. The field has a dipole-like distribution over a characteristic volume of 1 mm 3 , which is consistent with theoretical expectations. These results demonstrate a very efficient conversion of the laser energy into magnetic fields, thus establishing a robust laser-driven platform for reproducible, well characterized, generation of quasi-static magnetic fields at the kT-level, as well as for magnetization and accurate probing of high-energy-density samples driven by secondary powerful laser or particle beams.

The paper presents theoretical analysis and experimental results concerning the major physical issues in the shock ignition approach. These are: generation of a high amplitude shock in the imploding target, laser-plasma interaction physics in the conditions of high laser intensities needed for high amplitude shock excitation, symmetry and stability of the shock propagation, role of fast electrons in the symmetrization of the shock pressure and the fuel preheat. The theoretical models and numerical simulations are compared with the results of specially designed experiments on laser plasma interaction and shock excitation in plane and spherical geometries.