MEC-U: Leveraging LCLS for Precision Plasma Science With a High-Repetition-Rate Petawatt Laser

We report on a major upgrade to the Matter in Extreme Conditions (MEC) instrument at SLAC's Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) providing a world-unique, open-access tool for high-precision studies of dense plasmas and dynamic materials. Through the FES-sponsored MEC-U project a new experimental hall will be constructed to house state-of-the-art high power lasers and target systems. The planned laser systems include a 10 Hz repetition rate 150 J petawatt laser system that can also be run in nanosecond pulse-shaped mode, and a 1 kilojoule nanosecond pulse-shaped laser, with additional space set aside for further upgrades. An efficient and versatile target chamber will support experiments using these lasers together with LCLS X-rays at up to 10 Hz. Hard X-ray FELs are uniquely suited for high-resolution probing of high-power and high repetition rate laser driven experiments, allowing time-resolved, first-principles measurement of fundamental state properties at unprecedented accuracy and precision. A second independent target area will support experiments using the optical lasers independent of the LCLS X-rays, under the auspices of LaserNetUS. We will overview scientific opportunities for laboratory plasma physics, dynamic materials and inertial fusion energy science.