Efficient Spherical Compression of Cannonball Targets with 1.052-µm Laser Beams

Abstract
The first successful experimental demonstration of spherical implosion of cannonball targets is reported. The cannonball target was irradiated by two 1.052-µm laser beams. The pusher containing DT fuel gas was imploded, with excellent spherical symmetry, by the pressure of the plasma confined between the tamper and the pusher. Both high compression density and high neutron yield were obtained.