Plasma parameters in laser imploded targets from space-resolved X-ray spectroscopy

Plasma densities and temperatures are deduced from soft X-ray emission spectra of neon-filled glass microballoons imploded by a 0.2 terawatt laser. Spatial resolution allows separate characterisation of the ablation plasma, the imploded glass and the compressed gas. Comparison with computer simulations of the implosion shows sensitivity to models for energy transport by hot electrons.