Highly-resolved 2D Perturbation Simulation Studies of NIF Ignition and Omega Double-shell Targets

Progress in simulation and experiment enhances prospects for NIF double-shell ignition in FY2011. Simulation studies have identified a stable double-shell ignition design based on graded density shells and metallic foams. Recent double-shell implosion experiments on Omega have shown unprecedented performance. Identification of possible failure mechanisms has motivated new and improved double shell designs: e.g., like-material outer surface of inner shell and foam; greatly reduced gap size; and density-matched glue. Progress in double-shell research has inspired many exciting materials science advances on the path to ignition