PHAse Space MApping (PHASMA) Experiment – Recent Results

The PHAse Space MApping (PHASMA) experiment employs non-perturbative, optical diagnostics for ion velocity distribution, electron velocity distribution, magnetic field, density, and turbulence measurements. A novel optical reconnection detection system is also under development. Here we review recent upgrades to the PHASMA facility including 3D Thomson Scattering for electron velocity distribution function measurements, a new target chamber for improved optical access, upgrades to the microwave interferometer to facilitate electron density measurements through the complex dynamics of the reconnection process, addition of a new coherent Thomson scattering detector to the microwave system for turbulence measurements, automated probe assemblies for magnetic fluctuation and electrostatic fluctuation measurements, and new plasma gun designs that employee 3D printed gas feeds to reduce collisionality and increase the magnetic Reynolds number of the merging flux rope plasma.