Megajoule laser facility technology

In this paper is described a ''megajoule'' laser facility devoted to the study of the physics of ignition and burning of the DT. This laser will use 240 chains (40 x 40 cm2) to deliver on target 1.8 MJ In 20 ns at 0.35 μ after frequency conversion. A modular design is planned to reduce the number of different components. A cryogenic microballoon will be used in case of indirect drive to obtain a gain in excess of 10. The target chamber and diagnostics are designed for the high rate of energy deposition of various particles (n, X, γ, α, ions). The building of 175 x 120 m2 will have 70 000 m2 of floor on 8 levels. (authors). 1 ref., 15 figs