Analysis of instabilities in merging plasma jets

High velocity (10-100 km/s) high density (10$^{16}$-10$^{18}$ cm$^{-3}$) plasma jets are proposed to form plasma liner to compress magnetized plasma target and to reach MIF conditions [1]. Merging of such plasma jets may cause instabilities, which can affect/destroy the plasma liner formation. 2D/3D numerical simulations of plasma jets merging/colliding were performed with PIC LSP and hybrid DOLPHIN codes. Results of simulations and nature of instabilities will be presented. [1] Y. C. F. Thio, E. Panarella, R. C. Kirkpatrick, C. E. Knapp, F. Wysocki, ``Magnetized Target Fusion in a Spheroidal Geometry with Standoff Drivers,'' Current Trends in International Fusion Research II, ed. E. Panarella, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa, 1999.