Overview of the Maryland Centrifugal Experiment

Recent results on MCX include : a) further measurements of ion rotational velocity profiles demonstrate shear in the rotation that exceeds the critical value for shear stabilization; b) a new insulator has eliminated the transition from high-rotation mode to low rotation mode; c) a study of the scaling of maximum rotational velocity shows that it is clearly limited from above by the Alfven velocity - the CIV limit is under study; d) magnetic probe measurements show that B fluctuations are dominated by a spectrum of low m number modes, indicating all high m modes are stabilized by velocity shear ; e) diamagnetic loop measurements at a variety of axial locations, and corresponding MHD analysis, are consistent with centrifugal confinement; f ) a new plasma injection gun has been installed and tested on MCX; injection experiments will be reported; g) a new 16 chord Halpha array has been implemented and an off center IR interferometer is almost complete for confirming centrifugal confinement. Upgrade plans will also be discussed.