The design of a line velocity interferometer for any reflector for inertial confinement experiments on the Z-machine

Two variants of optical imaging velocimetry, specifically the one-dimensional streaked line-imaging and the two-dimensional time-resolved area-imaging versions of the Velocity Interferometer System for Any Reflector (VISAR), have become important diagnostics in high energy density sciences, including inertial confinement fusion and dynamic compression of condensed matter. Here, we give a brief review of the historical development of these techniques, then describe the current implementations at major high energy density (HED) facilities worldwide, including the OMEGA Laser Facility and the National Ignition Facility. We illustrate the versatility and power of these techniques by reviewing diverse applications of imaging VISARs for gas-gun and laser-driven dynamic compression experiments for materials science, shock physics, condensed matter physics, chemical physics, plasma physics, planetary science and astronomy, as well as a broad range of HED experiments and laser-driven inertial confinement fusion research.

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Radiation, optical, power flow, and electrical diagnostics at the Z facility: Layout and techniques utilized to operate in the harsh environment

Webb

Bliss

Chandler

et al. 2023

Review of Scientific Instruments

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The Z machine is a current driver producing up to 30 MA in 100 ns that utilizes a wide range of diagnostics to assess accelerator performance and target behavior conduct experiments that use the Z target as a source of radiation or high pressures. We review the existing suite of diagnostic systems, including their locations and primary configurations. The diagnostics are grouped in the following categories: pulsed power diagnostics, x-ray power and energy, x-ray spectroscopy, x-ray imaging (including backlighting, power flow, and velocimetry), and nuclear detectors (including neutron activation). We will also briefly summarize the primary imaging detectors we use at Z: image plates, x-ray and visible film, microchannel plates, and the ultrafast x-ray imager. The Z shot produces a harsh environment that interferes with diagnostic operation and data retrieval. We term these detrimental processes “threats” of which only partial quantifications and precise sources are known. We summarize the threats and describe techniques utilized in many of the systems to reduce noise and backgrounds.

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The design of a line velocity interferometer for any reflector for inertial confinement experiments on the Z-machine

Cited by 4 publications

References 4 publications

Inertial Confinement Fusion - Experimental Physics: Z-Pinch and Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion

Inertial Confinement Fusion - Experimental Physics: Z-Pinch and Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion

Imaging velocity interferometer system for any reflector (VISAR) diagnostics for high energy density sciences

Radiation, optical, power flow, and electrical diagnostics at the Z facility: Layout and techniques utilized to operate in the harsh environment

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