Introduction

The Fusion Energy Program (FEP) is part of the Physics and Advanced Technologies (PAT) Directorate at LLNL. The mission of the FEP is to develop, in collaboration with national and international partners, the science and technology required to pursue fusion energy. LLNL scientists and engineers carry out research on both Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) and Magnetic Fusion Energy (MFE), including R&D in the following major categories:

• MFE Plasma Theory and Modeling
• MFE Experiments
• MFE Technology
• Heavy Ion Drivers for IFE
• IFE Target Physics
• IFE Technology
• Fusion Materials

We collaborate closely with other fusion institutions, including major partnering roles in experiments on the DIIID tokamak and in the Heavy Ion Fusion (HIF) Virtual National Laboratory (VNL). We also participate in National Nuclear Security Agency (NNSA) funded research on Inertial Confinement Fusion and laser-driven IFE. The FEP currently has two major experiments: the Spheromak for MFE and the Source Test Stand (STS) for HIF.

The principal goals of the FEP are:

• Develop a comprehensive predictive modeling capability, well benchmarked against experiments, for both MFE and IFE.
• Capitalize on Livermore strengths to establish new, and strengthen existing, roles in key elements of the experimental and technology programs of leading approaches to IFE and MFE.
• Pursue high leverage concepts in MFE and IFE that advance the knowledge base of fusion science and could result in improved approaches to fusion energy.

The Beam Research Program is also part of the FEP. This program element is developing advanced technology for DARHT (Dual Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamics Test) and compact accelerators for radiography and other applications. The physics and technology being developed by the Beam Research Program have potential applications in HIF and other accelerator-based programs.