On the superconfiguration approach to model NLTE plasma emission

We discuss some aspects of the superconfiguration approach as applied to NL TE problems. The framework of this study is the AVERROES/TRANSPEC model dev eloped for simulating non-LTE spectra. The model acts as a postprocessor to plasma hydrodynamics simulations. After a review of its main characteristi cs, the capability of the model is illustrated with results of calculations concerning the M-shell emission of highly ionized hot plasmas. In particul ar, we analyse experiments performed on gold plasmas and we present the fir st fully time-dependent NLTE STA-spectroscopy postprocessing of a lanthanum plasma created by a short and intense laser pulse. (C) 2001 Elsevier Scien ce Ltd. All rights reserved.