KMSF Laser fusion systems overview

Abstract

The unique requirements of a laser fusion experimental facility have led to the development of many new optical engineering and manufacturing techniques over the past several years. This paper will discuss some of these developments in the areas of high-power Nd+ glass laser systems and target illumination systems. The success of our laser fusion program to date has also required significant engineering advances in pellet fabrication techniques and in plasma diagnostic devices, but these nonoptical developments are not included in this paper.