
How LLNL launched ‘The Age of Ignition’ at NIF
How did LLNL make history at the National Ignition Facility by achieving fusion ignition on Dec. 5, 2022?
Our special expanded report, The Age of Ignition, explains how this was accomplished, how it helps strengthen national security, and what it means for science and energy.
Jeff Wisoff Reflects on Decades of National Service
April 25, 2025-
As he wraps up his 24-year career at LLNL, Jeff Wisoff reflects on his time as Principal Associate Director of NIF & Photon Science, the achievement of fusion ignition, and how serving as a NASA astronaut informed his approach to leadership.
New NIF Diagnostic Tool Will Make ‘Movies’ of Phase Changes in Materials
April 15, 2025-
In a significant advance in high-pressure physics, LLNL researchers developed a tool to capture real-time sequential images of phase changes in materials. This new diagnostic instrument—dubbed FIDDLE—is shedding light on the nanosecond dynamics of matter under extreme conditions.
Big Ideas Lab Podcast Takes on Tech Spinoffs and Partnerships
April 1, 2025-
The Big Ideas Lab podcast takes a deep dive into how the Innovation and Partnerships Office (IPO) facilitates tech transfer at LLNL and some of the most impactful success stories, including one startup inspired by research into protecting NIF's optical components from laser damage.
Big Ideas Lab Podcast Explores the Future of Fusion Energy
March 19, 2025-
In the latest episode of “The Big Ideas Lab” podcast, learn the next steps needed to turn the dream of fusion energy into reality.
Prominence of LLNL Laser Science on Display at NIF-JLF User Groups Meeting
March 13, 2025-
The progress made to capitalize on and sustain NIF’s capabilities, and the scientific advancements made during JLF’s first full year of operations following a major refurbishment, were highlighted during this year’s NIF and JLF User Groups Meeting.
Introducing El Capitan
March 12, 2025-
One of the world’s most powerful and energy-efficient supercomputers helps scientists safeguard the U.S. nuclear stockpile. Read more ...
Ride the Optics Recycle Loop with the Big Ideas Lab Podcast
March 5, 2025-
NIF was designed and built in a way to manage some level of laser damage on the optics nearly every time the laser fires. In this Big Ideas Lab Podcast episode, we take a ride along this Optics Recycle Loop of continuous innovation and ingenuity.
Igniter Award Winners Support Their Colleagues — And the Lab’s Missions
March 3, 2025-
The second annual NIF & Photon Science Igniter Awards recognize two team members, Sara Novell and Melissa Meier, who have gone above and beyond to inspire and support their colleagues to reach greater heights, both professionally and personally.