Laboratory astrophysics using high intensity particle and photon beams.

Recent years have seen growing interests in the laboratory investigation of astrophysical phenomena that can be addressed by ultra intense electromagnetic fields. Such fields are becoming available through the advancement of technologies in lasers as well as high-energy particle beams. History has shown that the symbiosis between direct observations and laboratory studies is instrumental in the progress of astrophysics. We believe that a dedicated facility for laboratory astrophysics using high intensity particle and photon beams can help to significantly advance our knowledge in some critical aspects of astrophysical phenomena. © 2002 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]