Microradiographs of laser fusion targets: 2-D modeling and analysis

A new contact microradiographic system for analyzing laser fusion targets with 2-D modeling and image analysis techniques is described. This system, which uses a monochromatic x-ray source and Kodak highresolution plate emulsion, is sensitive to spherical wall thickness variations (eccentricities) as small as +/-200 A in hollow shells with a mean wall thickness of 1 microm. Measurements of wall thickness and of local and spherical wall thickness variations by radiographic techniques, using 2-D video, digital image analysis, and optical interferometry, are compared.