Center for High Energy Density Laboratory Astrophysics Research

Stored: Center for High Energy Density Laboratory Astrophysics Research

Center for High Energy Density Laboratory Astrophysics Research

Type	Program
Sponsor Organization	University of Michigan
Top Organization	Department of Energy
Creation Legislation	Not specified; part of broader research initiatives
Website	Website
Purpose	CHEDAR probes high-energy-density plasmas to understand cosmic events like supernovae, aiding astrophysics and nuclear security missions.
Program Start	2003
Initial Funding	Not specified; part of NNSA SSAA funding
Duration	Ongoing
Historic	No

The Center for High Energy Density Laboratory Astrophysics Research (CHEDAR) at the University of Michigan focuses on exploring fundamental high-energy-density plasmas relevant to astrophysical phenomena. Its research aids in understanding stellar and planetary interiors, supernovae, and other cosmic events while also supporting the National Nuclear Security Administration's mission in science-based stockpile stewardship through the study of materials under extreme conditions.

Official Site

Goals

• Study the physics of high-energy-density plasmas to understand astrophysical processes.
• Support the development of predictive models for nuclear weapons stockpile stewardship.
• Train the next generation of scientists in high-energy-density physics.
• Develop and refine experimental techniques and diagnostics for high-energy-density research.

Organization

CHEDAR is led by Professor Carolyn Kuranz within the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences at the University of Michigan. It operates under the umbrella of the Stewardship Science Academic Alliances (SSAA) funded by the NNSA. The center collaborates with multiple universities and national labs, with governance involving faculty, researchers, and advisory boards.

Partners

• University of Michigan
• University of Notre Dame
• University of California, Los Angeles
• Rice University

History

CHEDAR was established in 2003 to focus on high-energy-density physics, specifically in the context of laboratory astrophysics. It has been part of the University of Michigan's efforts to leverage high-power lasers and pulsed-power facilities for research that mirrors conditions in the cosmos and in nuclear weapons. Over time, CHEDAR has expanded its research scope, incorporating more sophisticated experiments and simulations to address broader scientific questions in astrophysics and national security.

Funding

While specific initial funding figures are not publicly detailed, CHEDAR is supported by grants from the NNSA under the SSAA program. In 2023, CHEDAR received a significant renewal of funding, underscoring its ongoing importance. Funding supports research, student training, and collaboration with national laboratories.

Implementation

Implementation involves conducting experiments at facilities like the National Ignition Facility and using computational modeling to simulate high-energy-density conditions. CHEDAR's research includes studying shock waves, radiation transport, and material mixing in plasmas. It's an ongoing program without a defined end date, focusing on continuous research and education.

Related

• National Nuclear Security Administration
• Stewardship Science Academic Alliances

External links

• https://clasp.engin.umich.edu/research/hela
• No specific Wikipedia article for CHEDAR; general information on the University of Michigan can be found at wikipedia:University of Michigan

Social media

• There are no specific social media accounts for CHEDAR; updates can be found through the University of Michigan's social media channels.