J. Phys. IVFrance 11 (2001)

Abstract. In this paper we demonstrate through calculations and theoretical analysis the first application of a x-ray laser for probing hot, high-density plasmas (n, 2 ~O~'crn-~) using a Ni-like transient collisional excitation x-ray laser as a probe. Theoretical predictions are used to diagnose the electron temperahue in short pulse (500 fs) laser produced plasmas. The threshold power of the x-ray probe is estimated by comparing theoretical scattering levels with plasma thermal emission. The necessary spectral resolution of the instrument sufficient for resolving elechon temperature is given. 1