Research Facilities
We have an operating x-ray source that produces x-rays in the 1.5 to 3 keV range. We use this equipment to characterize the instruments used to detect x-rays on subnanosecond timescales, and to study possible improvements to them. For example, we are examining various coatings and evaluating the noise properties of microchannel plates. The figure shows a picture of the manson source.
The Omega laser, at the University of Rochester, can use its 60 laser beams to deliver more UV energy to a target than any other laser system in the world. We are using it for laboratory astrophysics experiments. We use several laser beams, with a structured target, to produce the physical conditions we want to observe. Then, to diagnose the system, we use other laser beams to produce x-rays for x-ray radiography and absorption spectroscopy. Our current experiments are simulating supernova and supernova remnant dynamics. The results are providing the first experimental tests of models through which we interpret the universe.
The Z facility, at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, can produce more than 2 MJ of x-ray energy ‚ more than any other source ‚ in a 5 ns pulse. To do so, it drives a large current through a cylindrical ring of hundreds of wires, accelerating them inward. When they collide and stagnate, their kinetic energy is converted to heat, which is mostly emitted as x-ray radiation. We use these x-rays to heat, or to drive shock waves through, volumes of many cubic mm. This allows us to investigate physical systems containing structure on a range of spatial scales.
The NIKE Laser, at the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington D.C., is a Krypton Fluouride Laser exploring alternative technologies for laser fusion. Its uniquely smooth beams make it an ideal facility for certain experiments. Our group is also actively involved in collaboration with NRL scientists to develop better diagnostics.
This list is not exhaustive. We go to the best facilities to explore questions of interest. Some of our students become involved in other facilities, depending upon their interests and the ebb and flow of research.