00405985
Executive Summary
System Metadata
Source ID
DOC-LANL_MAG
Process Date
2/3/2026
Integrity Hash
SHA256-8w3cvenuwuy...
Indexer Status
COMPLETE
INVESTIGATIVE ANALYSIS
Layman's Executive Summary
This document explores Magnetized Target Fusion (MTF), a middle-ground approach to fusion energy that requires much lower speeds and less power than traditional methods. It specifically details a 1994 collaboration between American and Russian scientists using explosive power generators to create and study magnetized plasma.
Document Origin
The document was authored by Irvin R. Lindemuth of the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), specifically from the X-1 division, and was submitted to the 1st International Symposium for Evaluation of Current Trends in Fusion Research.
Research Purpose
The research aimed to evaluate Magnetized Target Fusion (MTF) as a viable intermediate approach between Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) and Magnetic Confinement Fusion (MCF). Scientists sought to solve the high-energy loss and high-velocity requirements of traditional fusion by using magnetic fields to insulate the fuel and reduce necessary implosion speeds.
Relevancy Analysis
" This document is a cornerstone for investigating High Energy Density Physics (HEDP) and its overlap with sensitive aerospace/defense programs. The involvement of VNIIEF (Russia's equivalent to Los Alamos) in a joint pulsed-power project highlights the era's technology transfer and the shared interest in compact, high-yield fusion systems. It connects to the wider investigation by establishing the lineage of Magnetized Target Fusion as a credible alternative to mainstream fusion, often cited in discussions regarding advanced propulsion and compact power sources. "
Extracted Verifiable Claims
- › The MAGO experiment was a collaborative effort between Los Alamos National Laboratory and the All-Russian Scientific Institute for Experimental Physics (VNIIEF).
- › Irvin R. Lindemuth was the primary author and was stationed at Los Alamos National Laboratory, X-1, MS F645 in 1994.
- › The document claims that Magnetized Target Fusion (MTF) utilizes an embedded magnetic field to reduce thermal conductivity rather than to provide plasma confinement.
- › The project utilized explosive pulsed power generators as the energy source to produce energetic magnetized plasma.
- › The research was funded by the United States Department of Energy under contract W-7405-ENG-36.
Technical Contribution
This document provides a primary record of the post-Cold War scientific bridge between the United States (LANL) and Russia (VNIIEF) regarding highly sensitive explosive pulsed-power technology and the 'MAGO' experiment.