Localization of the magnetic field in a plasma flow in laboratory simulations of astrophysical jets at the KPF-4-PHOENIX installation

Abstract

The results of experiments aimed at investigating axial plasma flows forming during the compression of a current–plasma sheath are presented. These experiments were carried out at the KPF-4-PHOENIX plasma-focus installation, as part of a program of laboratory simulations of astrophysical jets. The plasma flows were generated in a discharge when the chamber was filled with the working gas (argon) at initial pressures of 0.5–2 Torr. Experimental data obtained using a magnetic probe and optical diagnostics are compared. The data obtained can be used to determine the location of trapped magnetic field relative to regions of intense optical glow in the plasma flow.