Tiny Laser Makes Copper Wire Reach 180000F in Cosmic Simulation

A team of scientists has made a groundbreaking achievement by creating stellar-like conditions using a small laser and a thin copper wire. This revolutionary experiment has implications for various scientific fields, including astrophysics and fusion research.

Increasing Copper Density with Laser

In a series of precise measurements, scientists varied the timing between the laser pulse and the X-rays passing through the target. This technique allowed them to create a detailed ‘X-ray film’ of the process. ‘First, the laser pulse interacts with the wire and generates a local shock wave that passes through the wire like a detonation and ultimately destroys it,’ explains HIBEF department head Dr. Toma Toncian.

The impact of the laser generated fast-moving electrons that rapidly heated the surface of the copper wire, producing shock waves. These shock waves converged toward the center of the wire, briefly creating extremely high pressures and temperatures. ‘Our computer simulations suggest that we have reached a pressure of 800 megabars,’ says Thomas Cowan, director of the HZDR Institute of Radiation Physics and initiator of the HIBEF consortium.

Unprecedented Conditions Achieved

Measurements revealed that the density of the copper at the center was temporarily increased to eight or nine times that of its normal, cold state. The temperature soared to an incredible 180,032 degrees Fahrenheit (100,000 degrees Celsius), similar to the conditions found in the corona of a white dwarf star.

‘This combination of short-pulse laser and X-ray laser is unique in the world. It was only thanks to the high quality and sensitivity of the X-ray beam that we were able to observe an unexpected effect,’ explains Dr. Alejandro Laso Garcia, lead author of the paper.

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Beyond Astrophysics

The new measurement technique developed by the team holds promise beyond astrophysics.

‘Our experiment shows in an impressive way how we can generate very high densities and temperatures in a wide variety of materials,’ explains Ulf Zastrau, head of the HED group at the European XFEL.

This development represents a significant step forward for fusion research, where numerous teams and start-ups globally are working toward creating fusion power plants using high-performance lasers.

Fusion Research Impact

The concept involves intense laser flashes striking a fuel capsule made of frozen hydrogen from all directions, igniting it to release more energy than is initially input—an essential milestone for the future of sustainable energy.

‘With our method, we could observe in detail what happens inside the capsule when it is hit by the laser pulses,’ says Cowan, describing future experiments. ‘We expect that this can have a huge impact on basic research in this area.’

Experimental Significance

In the future, scientists aim to use this technique to simulate various cosmic phenomena and to further explore the fundamental properties of materials under extreme conditions.

The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, has already garnered significant attention in the scientific community for its innovative approach and impressive results.

‘Our method could pave the way for new experimental techniques and applications across multiple scientific domains,’ says Dr. Laso Garcia.

Technical Challenges and Achievements

Developing this technique was not without its challenges. The precise timing between the laser pulse and X-rays was critical for capturing the desired data.

The successful demonstration of this method highlights the potential for using advanced laser systems in high-pressure physics and materials science.

Such innovations could lead to significant advancements in both theoretical and applied research, opening up new avenues for scientific discovery.

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This groundbreaking experiment showcases the potential of advanced laser technology to replicate extreme cosmic conditions here on Earth. The implications for astrophysics, fusion research, and high-pressure physics are profound, paving the way for future innovations and discoveries in these fields.

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