Principles of Plasma Diagnostics
MIT OpenCourseWare offers this advanced course on measuring the physical properties of plasmas, covering both magnetically confined fusion plasmas and high-energy-density plasmas. Topics include measurement of magnetic and electric fields, particle flux, refractive index, and the emission and scattering of electromagnetic waves, along with nuclear diagnostic techniques. The course explains the underlying physics of each diagnostic method and how it is applied to real experimental plasmas, from fusion devices to laser-produced plasmas. Materials follow the standard MIT OCW format of lecture notes and readings drawn from the department's Nuclear Science and Engineering and Physics curricula. There is no certificate; the course is offered freely for self-study as archived course material rather than a live instructor-led session.