開催報告：HEDS diagnostics course Spring quarter of 2024

2024年4月2日から6月6日までの火曜日・木曜日にカリフォルニア大学サンディエゴ校とローレンス・リバモア国立研究所が提供する大学院レベルのコースが拠点事業の一環としてWebExにて行われました。（参考：開催案内）

その”HEDS diagnostics course”に参加した大阪大学レーザー科学研究所のSYAHBANA Fauzan Muhammadさんからの参加報告となります。

In preparation for joining The Institute of Laser Engineering (ILE) at Osaka University to study under Professor Shinsuke Fujioka’s tutelage, I had the opportunity to attend the High Energy Density Science (HEDS) course. I was able to join HEDS course under his recommendation. The course was organized by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), UC San Diego, General Atomics, and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. It mainly focused on discussing the diagnostic systems and technologies used in HEDS, which are implemented at the forefront of fusion research facilities, such as the National Ignition Facility (NIF), OMEGA, the Z Machine, and GEKKO/LFEX laser systems.

The lectures covered a broad yet comprehensive range of topics, addressing both the deep theoretical aspects and the practical decisions that LLNL made to design NIF. Throughout the course, we studied diagnostics primarily for neutrons, photons (including optical, x-rays, and gamma rays), and the plasma itself. We also explored the essential electrical and optical support systems, along with critical tools such as spectrometers, detectors, and laser probes. Additionally, the course delved into the imaging and computational methods used to process data. Each of these components is vital for advancing and refining the technologies needed to achieve a viable nuclear fusion reactor.

Personally, I really loved the way the team held the lectures. During the sessions, there were a lot of breaks to address burning questions that students had. The class actively seized these opportunities to clarify their understanding of the materials, even continuing discussions after the lecture ended through personal emails. The professors were patient, answering every question directly in class or through email. Additionally, they assigned tasks for students to review their understanding of the subjects, and there were two exams to summarize the 20 lectures over the past three months.

Overall, even though I have just started my journey in this field, the course provided many valuable experiences that significantly enhanced my understanding of the diagnostic tools used in laser systems for fusion research—knowledge that I hadn’t had the opportunity to gain back in my home country, Indonesia. It was a unique and special opportunity to learn directly from professors and experts who are at the forefront of this field, and I am very grateful for this chance. The insights I gained from this course will undoubtedly be instrumental in my future research at ILE, Osaka University.

 Reported by SYAHBANA Fauzan Muhammad (ILE, Osaka Univeristy)