Minimum B Field with Optimal Ellipticity and Idea for Improved Axial Confinement by Tuned ICRH Cycles

The aim of the article is to discuss briefly obtained results by the authors and to indicate some directions for further research. A closed form expression for the ellipticity of a flux tube confining a low beta plasma in a conventional mirror machine is determined. A scenario to improve end confinement and increase the electron temperature by ICRH with resonant absorption in the vicinity of the mirrors is suggested.