We are presently developing an ultrafast x-ray framing camera, to be used in laser fusion experiments on the NOVA facility at LLNL. The framing camera will provide high-fidelity images with frame durations of less than 100 ps. The first prototype camera will generate a single image approximately one square centimeter in area, with a spatial resolution of approx.30 microns at the image plane. Coupling the framing camera to a 22 x Wolter x-ray microscope will provide resolution at the target of approx.2 microns. The camera will be optically triggered using a laser pulse that is synchronous with the NOVA driver beams.

Several diagnostics measure the particle sources and losses in the Tandem Mirror Experiment-Upgrade (TMX-U) plasma. An absolutely calibrated high-speed (0.5 ms per frame) filtered (6561 A) video camera measures the total ionization source as a function of radius. An axial view of the plasma automatically integrates the axial variations within the depth of field of the system. Another camera, viewing the plasma radially, measures the axial source variations near the deuterium fueling source. Axial ion losses are measured by an array of Faraday cups that are equipped with grids for repelling electrons and are mounted at each end of the experiment. Unequal ion and electron (nonambipolar) radial losses are inferred from net current measurements on an array of grounded plates at each end. Any differences between the measured particle losses and sources may be attributed to ambipolar radial losses and/or azimuthal asymmetries in the particle-loss profiles. Methods of system calibration, along with details of computer data acquisition and processing of this relatively large set of data, are also presented. 6 refs., 1 fig.

Weekly report of the Texas Crop and Livestock Reporting Service on broiler chick numbers in Texas and compared with other states. It includes compiled statistics across six consecutive weeks, the week ending on January 25 to the week ending on March 1, during 1985 and 1986 for broiler eggs set, chicks hatched, and chicks placed.