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Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference: GR/R12626/01
Title: Laboratory Simulations of Collisionless Shock Physics
Principal Investigator: Woolsey, Professor N
Other Investigators:
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Department: Physics
Organisation: University of York
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 29 May 2001 Ends: 28 May 2004 Value (£): 211,369
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Plasmas - Laser & Fusion
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
No relevance to Underpinning Sectors
Related Grants:
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
This proposal describes innovative laser-plasma interaction experiments that will enable key aspects of collisionless shock formation to be investigated in the laboratory. We propose to undertake laboratory-based experiments with the aim of producing counter-streaming plasmas permeated by a strong magnetic field. VULCAN the high-energy / high-power laser based at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) will be used to study the behaviour, in particular shock formation, of these collisionless plasmas. We will utilise our wealth of experience and exploit synergies between UK laser-plasma interaction and magnetic confinement fusion communities to provide unique data to test current theory. One of the most difficult aspects of shock behaviour to model is the role of the magnetic field. The proposal outlines an ambitious programme to develop experimental techniques to achieve this, presenting the opportunity to exploit novel methods for generating large magnetic fields in the laboratory. Dimensionless scaling arguments suggest key aspects of space and astrophysical plasmas may be directly investigated. This offers an opportunity of addressing of fundamental questions relevant to a broad scientific community laboratory environment.
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Organisation Website: http://www.york.ac.uk