Laboratory models for astrophysical jets

Abstract
In this paper we will discuss possible links between astrophysical models and observations, with several recent laboratory astrophysics experiments [4-10] performed on laser and pulsed-power facilities which are aimed at tackling some of the issues relevant to jets associated with young stellar objects. The effect of radiation on the structure of the flow will be illustrated using the results of experiments associated with the formation of radiatively cooled jets and radiative shocks. Furthermore the interaction of jets with various ambient mediums, including side-winds will also be discussed. Finally we will discuss experiments where toroidal magnetic fields dominate the jet dynamics, producing a structure consisting of a magnetically confined jet within an outflow cavity collimated by external thermal pressure.