What is the Zebra Pulsed Power Lab?

The Zebra Pulsed Power Lab (ZPPL) was established by the University of Nevada, Reno and dedicated in 2000. Supported primarily by the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), its mission is to conduct research and to train students in the field of high-energy-density (HED) science, the study of the behavior of matter subject to conditions of extreme temperature and density. This rapidly developing field explores the fourth state of matter, called plasma, under conditions similar to those occurring in the interiors of stars, nuclear fusion reactors, and lightning bolts.

Recent news from the Department of Physics

A large group of people, with one row sitting and another row standing behind, smile for a photo in the Joe Crowley Student Union.

Workshop explores a broader vision for lithium: fusion and fission energy applications

The interdisciplinary workshop brought scientists, businesspeople and government officials to the University campus

A hand holding a pocket watch with sunlight streaming through the background. The clock displays 2:39.

The most precise clock ever built ticks closer to reality

Recent findings provide roadmap to building nuclear clocks

Conference participants stand on the steps outside the Tahoe Blue Event Center under a blue sky with a single cloud.

Strongly Coupled Coulomb Systems conference hosted at Lake Tahoe

Scientists and students spent a week on Tahoe’s south shore discussing and sharing cutting-edge physics research