A study of the Rayleigh-Taylor instability seeded by a single-feature perturbation with and without externally applied magnetic fields*

The Rayleigh-Taylor instability (RTI) has been identified as one of the largest inhibitors to high-gain inertial confinement fusion experiments. Understanding RTI growth from single-feature perturbations, such as those caused by engineering features in capsules, and the potential damping effects of externally applied magnetic fields on instability growth can have significant implications. A National Laser User Facility (NLUF) campaign for platform development of an experiment designed to study magnetized RTI seeded by single-feature perturbations on the Omega EP facility is underway. Results from the first two shot days that focused on Fresnel Zone Plate (FZP) imaging of RTI and hot electron generation from high intensity laser drives are presented. The first development day focused on an unmagnetized configuration to observe the evolution of thin-layer RTI growth and validate platform performance. The effect of an externally applied magnetic field on the RTI growth and morphology is investigated in the second shot day of the experimental campaign. Adjustments to the platform between shot days and further recommendations are also discussed. The experimental configuration is simulated utilizing FLASH and Ares hydrodynamic and resistive magnetohydrodynamic capabilities.