KBframed 16-Image X-Ray Optic

2015:

The next-generation Kirkpatrick–Baez (KB) microscope employs new x-ray optics for use on OMEGA cryogenic target implosions. Developed by Senior Scientist Frederic J. Marshall, the 16-image KB optic fits onto an existing OMEGA KB microscope chassis. The optics (seen in the right side of the image) have been arranged so that the individual images fall onto the imaging elements of a fast framing camera. The framing camera is used to time-gate the images from each optic to produce a “movie” of the late stages of a cryogenic implosion with a frame-to-frame resolution of 30 ps. The compact mirrors have a demonstrated spatial resolution of ~5 µm. This unique combination of spatial and temporal resolution is an important addition to the diagnostic arsenal at LLE. The measurements from this new KB microscope will be used to infer the central pressure achieved in the cryogenic implosions, a key performance metric in establishing DT fusion ignition equivalence with the OMEGA laser.

Shown here is the next-generation Kirkpatrick–Baez microscope