Observations of high-M_A, magnetized, collisionless shocks on the OMEGA facility.

Magnetized collisionless (λ_mfp>> L_shock) shocks are created throughout the universe including within super-nova remnants and the Earth’s atmosphere. These shocks can generate energized, ionized particles and radiation belts. The radiation belts exist for longer durations and extend over greater distances than predicted by models, which is of particular concern for shocks driven close to the Earth where satellites can be affected. Designing a laboratory experiment where a high M_A (=v_A/v >5) shock is produced within magnetized conditions, allows benchmarking of HANE (High Altitude Nuclear Explosion) models, and helps develop a better understanding of the underlying physics.

A recent experiment at Omega used a gas jet to provide a pre-ionized, pre-magnetized background plasma within a MIFED assembly, through which a shock is driven. Thomson scattering and proton radiography measure the temperature, velocity, density and magnetic field of the driven shock and background plasma. Various initial conditions were investigated and these results, as well as comparisons with HANE simulations, will be presented.