CONCEPTUAL DESIGNS FOR MULTIPLE DETECTORS ALONG A SINGLE LINE-OF-SIGHT FOR HIGH-PRECISION, NEUTRON TIME-OF-FLIGHT MEASUREMENTS AT THE Z FACILITY

A neutron time-of-flight (nTOF) detector system is being developed for the Z Facility to enable high-precision measurements of the fusion neutron spectrum, with a focus on characterizing the excess kinetic motion of the fusion hotspot. The system will employ three radial lines-of-sight (LOSs) in the z=0 plane, each separated by 120 degrees, to assess both isotropic and directional flows. To meet stringent cross-timing requirements, we propose placing two or more detectors at different distances on a shared LOS, allowing simultaneous measurement of fusion birth x-rays, along with the DT and DD neutron fusion peaks. Another key objective is to minimize neutron scattering effects when using multiple detectors on a single LOS. We will present Monte Carlo modeling, design analyses, and recommendations for further development and deployment of the nTOF system at the Z Facility.