A time-resolved, in-chamber x-ray pinhole imager for Z.

Area of Science:

• Fusion energy research
• Plasma physics
• High-energy-density physics

Background:

• Existing Z facility imaging systems lack combined high-resolution and multi-frame time resolution.
• Diagnosing Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion (MagLIF) requires advanced imaging capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce and demonstrate the Time Resolved In-Chamber X-ray Imager (TRICXI).
• Provide high-resolution, time-resolved x-ray imaging for MagLIF and similar targets.
• Enhance diagnostic capabilities at the Z facility.

Main Methods:

• Commissioned a new time-resolved x-ray imaging diagnostic (TRICXI).
• Utilized a microchannel plate camera for multi-frame imaging.
• Installed the instrument within 2 meters of the load in the Z vacuum chamber with specialized shielding and vacuum systems.

Main Results:

• TRICXI provides time-resolved spatial imaging with high resolution.
• Demonstrated imaging capabilities on a series of MagLIF shots.
• Presented predictions for resolution and image irradiance to guide experimental configurations.

Conclusions:

• TRICXI significantly advances x-ray imaging capabilities for MagLIF research.
• The new diagnostic is crucial for understanding stagnation behavior in fusion experiments.
• TRICXI enables more informed experimental design through predicted imaging parameters.