The beam physics research program encompasses the integration of theoretical/computational and experimental research in the areas of advanced radiation and accelerator physics, space plasma physics, ultra high field laser physics and high frequency microwave research for processing ceramic materials. The primary areas in which theoretical/computational and experimental research are integrated include: i) coherent radiation sources, e.g., gyrotrons, cyclotron masers, free electron lasers, ii) ultra high field laser-plasma interactions, and iii) advanced accelerators (laser-plasma driven). In addition, theoretical/computational research is conducted in the areas of space plasma physics, beam transport simulations, plasma processing, and computational physics which are coupled to other experimental programs. The facilities include: high power radiation sources and electron accelerators, Pharos III Nd-glass laser, the T3 laser, computing stations and a shared scientific computing center.
The Beam Physics Branch offers research opportunities for highly qualified applicants through National Research Council Research Associateships.
FACILITIES:
Pharos III 3 beam (500J each) laser (left; 247K), T3 laser (center; 251K), and 85 - 130 GHz, tunable, quasioptical gyrotron (right; 350K).
Simulation of an expanding magnetic cloud (left; 223K) and a magnetospheric barium release (right; 26K).