Recent advances in direct-drive ICF target physics at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics

The principal role of the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) is the development and validation of the direct-drive approach to inertial fusion. The LLE experimental and theoretical programs in support of this mission were organized to provide a moderate-gain option for the U.S. National Ignition Facility (NIF). Experimental implementation of the LLE program is carried out on the LLE's 30-kJ, 60-beam, UV OMEGA laser. This paper summarizes the status of the direct-drive ICF physics program at LLE with emphasis on the development of beam-smoothing techniques, long-scale-length plasma interaction experiments, direct-drive planar-foil hydrodynamic instability experiments, the effect of laser nonuniformity on target stability, integrated spherical target implosion experiments, design of direct-drive targets, development of target diagnostic techniques, and implementation of cryogenic-fuel-layering technology. (author)