The MAGO system (magnetic compression)

Results of experimental and theoretical investigations are presented in the frame of magnetohydrodynamic implosion conception MAGnitnoye Obzhatiye or magnetic compression (MAGO). This approach suggests magnetized deuterium-tritium (DT)-plasma preliminary heating and its subsequent adiabatic compression by liner imploded by a magnetic field. DT-plasma preliminary heating is performed using a special plasma chamber MAGO where magnetized plasma is accelerated in an annular nozzle up to velocities /spl sim/100 cm//spl mu/s and heated in arising collisionless shock waves. Subsequent plasma compression and bringing of its characteristics to the ignition can be realized using explosive magnetic generators with energy 100-500 MJ. This paper discusses the plasma chamber MAGO, physical effects essential for its operation, their relation with other plasma physics areas, as well as problems arising in the MAGO system. Due to its cylindrical symmetry with sole toroidal magnetic field component and essential role of magnetohydrodynamics, the MAGO system and its problems are similar to these in related systems, such as Z-pinches, plasma accelerators, and liner systems.