Proton Focusing in a FI Target Compatible Configuration
POSTER
Abstract
FI targets that use laser-generated proton beams for ignition must protect the proton-generating surface from the imploding shell. The protective case surrounding the surface has the potential to change the ion production efficiency and its focus. We have explored these effects in recent experiments on the Titan laser with a focusing surface embedded in a washer. The proton beam was recorded with a radiochromic film stack. The shadow of a 1000~lpi SEM grid mounted beyond the nominal focus of the proton surface ($\sim $1.8x radius of curvature) allowed the calculation of focal point position and size as a function of proton energy. Simultaneous XUV measurements of the heated grid give total proton energy deposited in the grid. Experimental results will be compared to simulations.
*Supported by the US DOE under DE-FG02-05ER54834 and W-7405-ENG-48, and support of the Ohio State University and the Herz Foundation.