Spheromak Turbulent Physics Experiment: Initial Physics

The Spheromak Turbulent Plasma Experiment (STPX) at Florida A {\&} M University came online July 2012. The STPX is dedicated in part to examining turbulence and stability physics in the spheromak environment. Much of the research on STPX will be applied to astrophysical and fusion systems. In addition the STPX will serve as a platform for the design and testing of novel diagnostic techniques. Also, closely coupled modeling and experimentation will take place using the FAMU computational cluster. The STPX device will make use of a number of diagnostic systems that have been developed in partnership with our research collaborators. For this meeting, initial physics and STPX plasma characteristics will be discussed.