Observation of Rayleigh-Taylor-like Structures in a Laser-Accelerated Foil

Abstract

The development of the Rayleigh-Taylor hydrodynamic instability was studied in laser-accelerated targets by introduction of mass thickness variations in foil targets. Observations made by side-on flash x radiography showed target structures and mass redistribution effects which resemble Rayleigh-Taylor bubbles and spikes, including not only advanced broadening of the spike tips on the laser-irradiated side of the foil but also projections of mass on the unirradiated side. The observations compare well with numerical simulations.