A collective scattering system for measuring electron gyroscale fluctuations on the National Spherical Torus Experiment

Abstract

A collective scattering system has been installed on the National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX) to measure electron gyroscale fluctuations in NSTX plasmas. The system measures fluctuations with k(perpendicular to)rho(e)less than or similar to 0.6 and k(perpendicular to)less than or similar to 20 cm(-1). Up to five distinct wavenumbers are measured simultaneously, and the large toroidal curvature of NSTX plasmas provides enhanced spatial localization. Steerable optics can position the scattering volume throughout the plasma from the magnetic axis to the outboard edge. Initial measurements indicate rich turbulent dynamics on the electron gyroscale. The system will be a valuable tool for investigating the connection between electron temperature gradient turbulence and electron thermal transport in NSTX plasmas.