Generation of field-reversed configurations via neutral beam injection

November 2025 | JT. Roche | APS DPP 2025 | Paper

We report evidence of successful generation of field-reversed configuration plasmas by neutral beam injection. This is achieved by trapping the steady-state beams in an initial seed plasma, hence providing a direct source of toroidally directed energetic ion current …

Wave coupling and propagation from a fast-wave antenna in the lower hybrid range of frequencies

July 2025 | J. Larson | Journal of Plasma Physics | Paper

A set of experiments were conducted on the Large Plasma Device (LAPD) at UCLA to test the operational principles of a traveling wave antenna of the comb-line type. This antenna was designed to launch helicon waves (fast waves in the lower hybrid range of frequencies) on DIII-D.

Electromagnetic and Centrifugal Effects on Plasma Acceleration in the Magnetic Nozzle

July 2025 | A.I. Smolyakov | Physics of Plasmas | Paper

Plasma flow and acceleration in the converging-diverging magnetic field configuration, such as magnetic nozzle in electric propulsion and open magnetic mirrors for fusion applications are considered.