
New research initiative turns laser focus on high-energy-density physics
Gilbert “Rip” Collins, formerly of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, will lead a multidisciplinary initiative in Rochester to study how atoms behave at extreme pressures.

Albert Simon, leading thermonuclear theoretician, remembered as generous mentor
His seminal contributions to the field helped attract graduate students to the Laboratory for Laser Energetics. He died February 5, 2017, at age 92.

LLE research lands local teens in semifinals for national science competition
Two local teens have earned recognition in the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search (formerly the Intel Science Talent Search) for research projects they carried out last summer at the University’s Laboratory for Laser Energetics.

Moniz, Schumer tour Laboratory for Laser Energetics
Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz (right), joined by Senator Charles Schumer, made his first visit to the Laboratory for Laser Energetics yesterday. Moniz and Schumer met with researchers and toured the facility, which is seen as a driver for regional innovation and growth.

Stronger terahertz waves allow safer detection of hidden objects
Terahertz (THz) waves are capable of sensing and imaging objects behind barriers, making them a promising tool for Homeland Security and other law enforcement agencies.

Fusion for energy: significant progress, major challenges
In a review of the state of the research in this field, Rochester physicist Riccardo Betti concludes the goal of realizing abundant, clean energy from inertial confinement fusion remains elusive, despite recent significant progress.

Funding aimed at fusion energy awarded to Laboratory for Laser Energetics, Sandia National Laboratories collaboration
The award seeks to build upon recent successes of Sandia’s Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion (MagLIF) concept. The concept uses a laser to heat fusion fuel contained in a small cylinder as it is compressed by the huge magnetic field of Sandia’s massive Z accelerator.

Energy and Water bill includes $68 million for Laboratory for Laser Energetics
The FY 2016 House Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill approved by the House Appropriations Committee this week includes $68 million for the Laboratory for Laser Energetics, the same level as FY15, but $7.5 million above President Barack Obama’s request.
Statement from President Seligman on 2015 LLE funding
President Seligman issued a statement in response to the fiscal year 2015 Omnibus Appropriations bill released by the House of Representatives Appropriations Committee on Dec. 9. The House of Representatives is planning to vote as early as Thursday on the measure, which would then go to the Senate. Current government funding runs out on Dec. 11.

Photon camp gives high school students exposure to optics
During their week at Photon Camp, 18 students from several local high schools and the Bergen Academy in New Jersey will attend lectures in the mornings, and get some hands on experience in the laboratory during the afternoons.