The reflex-diode HPM source on Aurora

The most recent in a series of experiments to develop the reflex diode as a source of microwaves on the Aurora relativistic electron-beam pulser is described. An overall output has been achieved for radial extraction of approximately 400 J in microwave bursts from approximately 100 to 150 ns at frequencies below 1 GHz. The diagnostics for radial extraction have included directional couplers, card calorimeters, and free-field sensors. The authors have varied the anode-cathode spacing, downstream microwave reflector, and a second anode foil, but, within the range of variations, no strong trends have been noted.<
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