Physics Colloquium, January 25, 2005

Connecting Laboratory Experiments with Astrophysical Phenomena

R. Paul Drake

University of Michigan

Modern high-energy-density facilities, which include lasers and Z pinches, are able to heat cubic millimeters of matter to millions of degrees. During the past decade, a community has emerged with a focus on the application of these facilities to problems posed by nature's own high-energy-density laboratories, such as exploding stars. Motivated by the questions posed by a recent supernova (SN 1987A), we have developed an approach through which laboratory work can impact our understanding of nature. We will review this approach as it has played out in the simulation of supernova explosions. During the next decade, further possibilities will be opened up as new facilities become available.

Dr. Drake's Web Site

Dr. Drake's Photo

Dr. Drake's Brief Biography

3.30 p.m., Smith Laboratory, Room 1005

Refreshments served in Smith 1094 at 3:00 p.m.