Abstract
We report on a second-generation pulsed laser holographic interferometry system (PLHIS) and its applications to the recording and measurement of light-ion diode and target plasmas on the Particle Beam Fusion Accelerator (PBFA II). Known as the Optical Diagnostics System (ODS), it combines an actively mode-locked and Q-switched, 0.15 ns, pulsed Nd:YAG laser with a 76 m pathlength Mach–Zehnder interferometer. This produces multiple, time-resolved holographic interferograms and shadowgrams from which we can obtain density, velocity, and qualitative information on diode and target plasmas. Background information on the first-generation PLHIS is presented to show the evolution of this diagnostic. The development in the laboratory and installation of the ODS at PBFA II is described, emphasizing the mechanical, optical, electrical, and safety engineering aspects. Included are some of the unique optical engineering problems with regard to current and proposed experiments as well as the limitations of this type of ‘‘long stand-off’’ diagnostic system. This work was supported by U. S. DOE contract No. DE-AC04-76DP00789.
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