Long citation

Dr. Michel Koenig has made remarkable contributions throughout his career in various domains of plasma physics. His work spans atomic physics, planetary science, laboratory astrophysics, and inertial confinement fusion, among other areas. In atomic physics, Dr. Koenig has been instrumental in studying quantum effects in dense plasmas generated by high-energy lasers. His pioneering theoretical work was later experimentally verified, providing crucial insights into the behaviour of matter under extreme conditions. In laser-direct drive implosion, Dr. Koenig conducted groundbreaking research at the Laboratoire pour l’Utilisation des Lasers Intenses (LULI), where he employed the 4ω LULI laser with a comprehensive set of diagnostics, including neutron bang time, X-ray streak cameras, and alpha-particle imaging. These diagnostics allowed precise measurement of energy efficiency in the implosion process, advancing understanding in laser-driven fusion techniques. Dr. Koenig’s contributions to equation of state (EOS) measurements and planetary physics have been transformative. His laboratory-based experiments, designed to simulate the interiors of Earth-like planets, especially those involving iron and silicates, are now foundational in planetary science. His work on the melting line of iron under extreme conditions has expanded our understanding of planetary core dynamics and has significant implications for modelling the interiors of terrestrial planets. In laboratory astrophysics, Dr. Koenig has significantly advanced our understanding of magnetized plasmas. His contributions include research on radiative shocks, stellar jets, and hydrodynamic instabilities. His recent work on magnetized plasmas and the intricate mechanisms of small-scale turbulence has been highly regarded in the astrophysical community, as it offers new perspectives on phenomena observed in space. Dr. Koenig has also made outstanding contributions in inertial confinement fusion (ICF). He has explored alternative fusion ignition schemes, including fast ignition and shock ignition physics, through collaborative efforts with renowned scientists such as Professor Peter Norreys and Professor Dimitri Batani. His experiments with high power lasers, including those conducted on the Laser MegaJoule (LMJ), have provided invaluable insights into the complexities of ignition processes, advancing the field of fusion research.