Optics In Laser Fusion

John B. Trenholme

doi:10.1117/12.954559

24 November 1975 Optics In Laser Fusion

John B. Trenholme

Proceedings Volume 0069, Optical Design Problems in Laser Systems; (1975) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.954559
Event: 19th Annual Technical Symposium, 1975, San Diego, United States

Abstract

A new approach to controlled thermonuclear fusion has recently become of interest. Laser light is used to compress and heat a small pellet containing deuterium and tritium. Energy is released in short times at high density, in contrast to the magnetic confinement approach utilizing long times at low density. Initial experiments are now underway to determine if this method is scientifically feasible. At the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory, a series of ever-larger Nd3+ glass lasers is being built in support of this effort. The culmination of this program will be the SHIVA laser system, a $20 million device which will put well over 1013 watts uniformly on a 200 pm target sphere. The design of such a laser system is governed by the desire to maximize the power per dollar, while avoiding damage to the laser. In addition, the target requires extremely uniform illumination and must be protected against destruction before the arrival of the main pulse. We consider the target requirements, laser design problems, point and focus system, and focusing optics of the SHIVA system.

Citation Download Citation

John B. Trenholme "Optics In Laser Fusion", Proc. SPIE 0069, Optical Design Problems in Laser Systems, (24 November 1975); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.954559

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