Our Vision Plasma is the most common state of matter in the universe. We aim to unlock the mysteries of the universe while pioneering transformative technologies, addressing challenges in areas like energy production, electronics, and environmental protection. We deepen the understanding of the plasma universe by leading small experiments and providing medium-scale collaborative research facilities. Our collaborations are global, and we travel around the world to conduct experiments on a range of facilities. These efforts are supported by theory, simulation, and a diverse scientific user community exploring astrophysics, high energy density physics, and frontier plasma science including emergent plasma concepts. Our work has strong synergies with the Applied Materials and Sustainability Sciences Directorate. Leadership Erik Gilson Head, Discovery Plasma Science Department Jongsoo Yoo Research Physicist and Deputy Head of Discovery Plasma Science Laboratory Astrophysics Our researchers study the fundamental properties of plasma to better understand magnetic reconnection and a range of cosmic phenomena: from the formation of plasma jets stretching light years across the stars to the motion of dust and other matter around black holes and neutron stars. Learn More Experiments Facility for Laboratory Reconnection Experiments (FLARE) Magnetorotational Instability (MRI) Experiment Liquid Metal Experiment-Upgrade (LMX-U) Magnetic Reconnection Experiment (MRX) High Energy Density Laboratory Plasmas High energy density (HED) plasmas, with conditions like those found in stars, nuclear explosions, and the core of giant planets, are among the most extreme states of matter created on Earth. HED plasmas can be produced in the laboratory through coupling intense lasers or pulsed power machines with plasmas. Learn More Focus Areas Magnetized HED Basic Inertial Fusion EXTREME ULTRAVIOLET (EUV) X-Ray Spectroscopy Frontier Plasma Science By focusing on the most advanced aspects of the field of plasma physics, we can solve some of the most complex theoretical and practical problems while developing cutting-edge technologies. Learn More Experiments Princeton Field-Reversed Configuration (PFRC) Hall Thruster Experiment (HTX) Low-Temperature Plasmas Our expertise extends to low-temperature plasmas, which have key uses in medical, environmental, industrial and technological applications. Learn More Andrew Carpe, an engineering associate, helps set up experimental equipment in our Low Temperature Plasma Laboratory Experiments Princeton Collaborative Low Temperature Plasma Research Facillity (PCRF)
