Accretion-powered objects are among the most luminous objects in the universe. Spectral observations of these systems can capture time-dependent behavior, as demonstrated in in warm absorber outflows in active galactic nuclei. The recent implementation of time-dependence in astrophysical photoionization models necessitates scrutiny of the underlying atomic kinetics.
The Z-facility at Sandia National Labs has a unique capability to probe the relevant physics. On the accretion-powered objects platform, rapidly evolving Z-pinch X-rays irradiate a foil target which reaches astrophysical temperature, density, and photoionization conditions. The measurement of reproducible, high resolution, time-resolved emission spectra can be used to benchmark astrophysical models.
We present state-of-the-art time-resolved emission data collected on the platform. We also show preliminary simulations performed with the 1-D radiation hydrodynamics code HELIOS-CR to address questions of plasma gradients, charge state distribution evolution, and expansion dynamics. These results will facilitate more effective data-model comparisons.