Laboratory Astrophysics aims to recreate the conditions of astrophysical objects, such as stars or planets, in the laboratory. Therefore it covers a wide range of densities and temperatures requiring various experimental techniques. We are using laser and ion beams in close collaboration with the GSI to create such extreme states of matter in the laboratory.
A central topic of the group is the laser-driven particle acceleration. This not only includes a better understanding and control of the acceleration process but also the application of the accelerated particle beams: These ultra-compact accelerators can create electric fields, which are 1000 fold stronger than in conventional accelerators and allow the creation of ultra-short x-ray flashes. These flashes have applications in diagnosing the plasma or in nuclear photonics.
We are also developing plasma diagnostics and use particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations to deepen our understanding of the fundamental interactions between light and plasma.
