National Laser Users’ Facility

LLE has provided qualified researchers with a unique environment for experiments in inertial fusion and high-energy-density physics through access to the National Laser Users’ Facility (NLUF). In addition to investigations of inertial fusion physics, approved experiments have been conducted in plasma physics, x-ray laser physics, XUV spectroscopy, and instrumentation development. The Office of Inertial Fusion of the Department of Energy funds the operation of NLUF, thus making it possible for researchers to conduct experiments without a direct facility charge. In addition, the Department of Energy provides research funds directly to users for experiments in inertial fusion and related scientific areas. NLUF is administered by a full-time manager, who reports to the LLE Director. All proposals are reviewed by the NLUF Steering Committee, which ranks them according to scientific merit. The Committee is appointed by the Department of Energy. Members include outstanding scientists from universities, industry, and government.