Abstract
In experiments performed with the OMEGA EP laser system, magnetic field generation in double ablation fronts was observed. Proton radiography measured the strength, spatial profile, and temporal dynamics of self-generated magnetic fields as the target material was varied between plastic, aluminum, copper, and gold. Two distinct regions of magnetic field are generated in mid- targets—one produced by gradients from electron thermal transport and the second from radiation-driven gradients. Extended magnetohydrodynamic simulations including radiation transport reproduced key aspects of the experiment, including field generation and double ablation front formation.
- Received 20 April 2020
- Revised 4 August 2020
- Accepted 10 August 2020
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.125.145001
© 2020 American Physical Society