We undertake astrophysical science and technology R&D because of its close alignment with the tight coupling to the science of stockpile performance and the technology of national security, and the capabilities of LLNL.
Overlapping areas include detectors, surveillance, data handling and mining, and even materials science techniques, (we use the most advanced analytic electron microscope available). In our theoretical work the overlaps are in radiation transport, coupled radiation-hydrodynamics, plasma physics, and the science of extreme conditions.
High performance computing is required for large scale, integrated simulations involving similar physics. Of course, both astrophysics and programs require similar calibration technologies, xray science and optics.
We are empasizing four thrust areas; Stars from birth to death, the primitive solar system, giant planets, and the high energy universe.
