Implementation of a Talbot-Lau x-ray deflectometer diagnostic platform for the OMEGA EP laser

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Laser-driven Hydrodynamics
• X-ray Diagnostics

Background:

• Characterizing ablation front dynamics is crucial for understanding laser-matter interactions.
• High electron densities (>10^22 cm^-3) are typical in laser-produced plasmas.
• Advanced diagnostics are needed to probe these dense, rapidly evolving plasmas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and benchmark a Talbot-Lau X-ray Deflectometer (TXD) at the OMEGA EP laser facility.
• To characterize the evolution of laser-irradiated foil ablation fronts.
• To map electron densities exceeding 10^22 cm^-3 using Moiré deflectometry.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a Talbot-Lau X-ray Deflectometer (TXD) for Moiré deflectometry.
• Employed a short-pulse laser (30-100 J, 10 ps) for target irradiation.
• Used a foil copper target as an X-ray backlighter source.
• Performed experimental tests to benchmark the diagnostic platform and grating survival.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated grating survival under experimental conditions.
• Described X-ray backlighter laser parameters yielding Moiré images.
• Successfully mapped electron densities characteristic of ablation fronts.

Conclusions:

• The EP-TXD diagnostic platform is a viable tool for probing laser-irradiated foil ablation fronts.
• Modifications were identified for accurate ablation front characterization using TXD.
• This work advances the capability to study high-density plasmas in laser facilities.