Laser fusion program

Progress in the development of high-energy short-pulse CO2 laser systems for fusion research is reported. The single beam system was used for target experimentation, and its optical train was improved. The initiation of two-beam target experiments on the two-beam system is described. Progress in construction checkout of the eight-beam system is continuing. The prototype program and HEGLF system design are discussed. Work in optical subsystem development, short-pulse amplifications, and saturable absorbers is described. Progress is reported in several areas of rare-gas oxide laser development and in the demonstration of damage-resistant reflectors. Heat-pipe metal vapor containment and work on dimeric mercury are described. Significant new support for wavelength-scaling in laser-target interactions is presented. The theory and predicted performance of vacuum insulation for preheat control is discussed.