  Magnetic reconnection in laser-produced magnetized plasma is investigated by
using optical diagnostics. The magnetic field is generated via Biermann battery
effect, and the inversely directed magnetic field lines interact with each
other. It is shown by self-emission measurement that two colliding plasmas
stagnate on a mid-plane forming two planar dense regions, and that they
interact later in time. Laser Thomson scattering spectra are distorted in the
direction of the self-generated magnetic field, indicating asymmetric ion
velocity distribution and plasma acceleration. In addition, the spectra
perpendicular to the magnetic field show different peak intensity, suggesting
an electron current formation. These results are interpreted as magnetic field
dissipation, reconnection, and outflow acceleration. Two-directional laser
Thomson scattering is, as discussed here, a powerful tool for the investigation
of microphysics in the reconnection region.
