Abstract

A laboratory means for the generation of ultrahigh energy density states of matter, corresponding approximately to 0.1 – 1.0 W/atom at solid density, appears within technological reach. This capability enables the production, in a convenient laboratory environment, of energy densities comparable to those occurring in stellar interiors. The use of this technology will permit the study of a new realm of atomic phenomena involving (1) the behavior of matter in very strong fields, (2) the properties of highly stripped ions, (3) the characteristics of dense highly non–equilibrium plasmas, (4) high–field modes of electromagnetic propagation, and (5) the possibility of a new laser–driven means for the excitation and control of nuclear reactions.

© 1988 Optical Society of America