Regina E. Bonanno

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Regina E. Bonanno has made foundational contributions to the engineering and assembly of large-scale laser systems, most notably through her work on the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Her research centers on the precision integration of optomechanical systems, specifically the design, assembly, and installation of line-replaceable units (LRUs)—the large, modular assemblies that house NIF’s 7,000+ optical components, including laser glass, mirrors, lenses, and polarizers. Her most cited paper (12 citations) details the rigorous specifications and assembly processes for these LRUs across NIF’s 192 beamlines, ensuring alignment and cleanliness at an unprecedented scale. A companion paper (8 citations) further elaborates on installation protocols, highlighting her role in solving complex engineering challenges for the world’s largest and most energetic laser. Bonanno’s work directly enabled NIF’s operational success, supporting experiments in inertial confinement fusion and high-energy-density physics. Her meticulous documentation and process innovations have become essential references for engineers building next-generation laser facilities, cementing her impact on large-scale optical system integration.