Creation of Magnetized Jet Using a Ring of Laser Beams

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel method to generate magnetized supersonic jets in the laboratory using a ring laser setup, enabling controlled magnetic fields for astrophysical research.

Contribution

It presents a new experimental approach with 2D simulations to produce and control magnetic fields in laser-driven jets, advancing laboratory astrophysics capabilities.

Findings

Strong toroidal magnetic fields can be generated and sustained in the jet.

Magnetic field strength is controllable via laser separation.

The method provides a versatile platform for astrophysical magnetic field studies.

Abstract

We propose a new way of generating magnetized supersonic jets using a ring laser to irradiate a flat surface target. Using 2D FLASH code simulations which include the Biermann Battery term, we demonstrate that strong toroidal fields can be generated and sustained downstream in the collimated jet outflow far from the target surface. The field strength can be controlled by varying the ring laser separation, thereby providing a versatile laboratory platform for studying the effects of magnetic field in a variety of astrophysical settings.